Redemption: An Original Play About Addiction Emancipation
A Minneapolis College Foundation and New Dawn Theater collaboration.
June 17, 18, 23 and 24 at 7 p.m.
June 18 and 25 at 2 p.m.
Whitney Fine Arts Theater
Free and open to the public.
June 16 opening night is by invitation only.
Attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods and personal hygiene products to donate to Amy’s Pantry Food Shelf at Minneapolis College.
About the Play
“Redemption” is a play written by Brian Grandison, a Minneapolis College Theatre Arts faculty member. Based on the real-life stories of students, alumni, faculty and staff in the College’s Addiction Counseling Training and Recovery Programs, the play is about a group of friends on the cusp of graduating. On a day that should be about celebrating, they discover life has presented them with one more test.
Inspired by events surrounding the George Floyd tragedy, “Redemption” focuses on certain people criminalizing addiction. “This came at the height of the demonization of George Floyd,” Grandison says. “Faculty suggested to me, ‘We want to change the focus on African Americans.’” Six of the play’s seven characters are based on real-life stories.
According to Grandison, “Redemption” looks at the journey of recovery through the lives and experiences of African Americans in today’s communities. “The play is for everyone,” he says. “No matter who you are or where you’re from. No matter how much or how little money you have… ‘Redemption’ is open and available to every human being.”
“I had to call it ‘Redemption’ because that’s what it was,” Grandison says. “Our worst moment does not define us. So many people thought they were going to die. It overwhelmed them – they were powerless. There’s something about being able to pick yourself up off the canvas.”
“I’ve learned about shame and stigma with people with mental illness and addiction,” he says. “If you break your knee, hand or finger, it’s okay. If your brain gets broken, it’s your fault. Same thing with addiction. I hope ‘Redemption’ contributes to a broader conversation.”
In conjunction with the production of “Redemption,” the Minneapolis College Addiction Counseling program is celebrating its 50-year anniversary. This milestone was achieved two years ago but was delayed until now because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information about Redemption, contact Bayla McDougal.