Reconstruction - Edgerton Foundation New Play Awards

Synopsis: In the searing aftermath of the Civil War, a man born into slavery challenges the broken promises of Reconstruction. John Lynch rose to become the first Black Speaker of Mississippi’s House of Representatives, a United States Congressman, and chair of the Republican National Convention.

Artistic and Grant Statement:

Since 1991, when the Alabama Shakespeare Festival launched the Southern Writers Festival, the theater has made the creation of new works a core part of its mission. Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Robert Schenkkan’s new play, ReCON$truXion, is a key part of this initiative, commissioned to expand the Southern canon with stories that reflect the region’s history. Mr. Schenkkan will collaborate with a talented team of actors, a dramaturg, and a director for an additional week of rehearsal time, thanks to the grant from the Edgerton Foundation. ReCON$truXion will open on April 23, 2026 as part of ASF’s 202-2026 Season.

Although much of the early work on this play began before I assumed the role of Artistic Director at ASF, it quickly became clear, after reading a draft, that this play merited a full-scale production. ReCON$truXion is considered by Schenkkan to be the third installment—and a sort of prequel—of his Lyndon B. Johnson trilogy. The play explores a pivotal period in American history between Reconstruction and Jim Crow, focusing on newly-freed Black citizens who held elected office. The protagonist, John Lynch, navigates a remarkable journey from a child of enslavement to serving as a U.S. Congressman.

In selecting productions for Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s 2025-2026 Season, I considered multiple factors to balance the fiscal health of the organization with the cultural needs of our community. Drawing on 20 years of experience in curating engaging productions, I aim to program works that resonate with both our local audiences and the broader community. Since my arrival at Alabama Shakespeare Festival in November 2024, I have been engaging with local churches, festivals, and community leaders to better understand the needs and desires of our audience. This research reinforced my commitment to presenting ReCON$truXion as a full production during this season. – Quin Gresham, Alabama Shakespeare Theatre Artistic Director

Creative team:

Director: Steve H. Broadnax

Other Artists To Be Announced

Cast:

To Be Announced