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Tony Kushner

Angels in America

"Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes" is a groundbreaking play by Tony Kushner that explores themes of identity, sexuality, politics, and religion in the context of 1980s America. The play is divided into two parts: "Millennium Approaches" and "Perestroika," which follow a group of interconnected characters grappling with their personal demons and the broader societal issues of the time. The play centers on Prior Walter, a gay man living with AIDS, and his partner, Louis Ironson, who struggles to come to terms with Prior's illness. Meanwhile, Joe Pitt, a closeted gay Mormon lawyer, and his wife, Harper, a Valium-addicted agoraphobic, navigate their own marital issues and personal crises. The play also features Roy Cohn, a ruthless and powerful lawyer based on the real-life figure of the same name, who is also dying of AIDS but refuses to acknowledge his sexuality or illness. Kushner's writing is poetic and philosophical, exploring the complexities of human emotion and the human condition. The play is also deeply political, examining the impact of conservative politics on marginalized communities and the role of religion in shaping societal attitudes towards sexuality. "Angels in America" is a landmark work of American theatre, winning numerous awards including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and multiple Tony Awards. It has been praised for its ambitious scope, powerful storytelling, and nuanced exploration of complex themes. The play has also been adapted into an HBO miniseries, directed by Mike Nichols and starring an all-star cast including Meryl Streep, Al Pacino, and Emma Thompson. Overall, "Angels in America" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant play that offers a powerful critique of American society and a celebration of the human spirit. It is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary American theatre and the cultural issues of the late 20th century...