The Saint

Story by Laura Kuzmicz, Arts Editor

Recently, Aquinas College theater put on the famous 1930s play, Waiting For Lefty, written by Clifford Odets. It was in the form of a stage reading, where the actors use their scripts on stage, and stage directions are read aloud to capture how the story was told. 

The story tells several tales of hardship and poverty during the Great Depression. It touches on issues such as families with low income, spies, communism, unions, and the looming threat of World War II. Clifford Odets wrote this one-act play in response to the mistreatment of union workers, especially cab drivers in New York City, who were often persecuted for being potential communists and a threat to American democracy. 

Clifford Odets responded to these claims by producing this show and letting others know that cab drivers, grocery store clerks, health care workers, and other low-income earning individuals simply want what’s fair and just. To earn a living, maintain a household and have a say on what they need and practice their freedom of speech. This play also criticized big business owners who would hoard wealth and privileges from their workers, only resulting in more suffering and debt for the economy. 

Back in 1935 on opening night, the play was a hit! Not only was the audience moved by the character’s stories and struggles, but they also proceeded to walk the streets and protest alongside the actors for a reformation and change for union workers across the US. As time went on, Waiting For Lefty was being brought on stage in several huge cities such as Boston, Los Angeles, Washington, Pittsburgh and even smaller cities like Lansing, Michigan! It is now known as one of the most important plays of the 1930s, which helped spark an array of protests and pleas for a better America. 

The performance at Aquinas was a success and every cast member had a wonderful time putting on this show! The theater department sends its thanks to everyone who came out to watch this historic play!

Photos via Scott Harmon, AQ Theater