The Brief

Students from NYTW’s partner schools are attending a matinee performance of The Peculiar Patriot this week, and you can join them in reflecting on the themes of the play with this edition of “The Brief” Study Guide! Learn about Liza Jessie Peterson’s development of the play and its production history, unpack the prison industrial complex, and understand the historical significance of the play’s title and the importance of community. Then, join us at the Workshop and see Liza’s final run of the play, concluding her 25 years of work with this piece.

May 18, 2026 by NYTW Education & Engagement

As you dive into this edition of “The Brief” Study Guide, we invite you to reflect on the themes of MY JOY IS HEAVY. What do you remember from your time in the pandemic? What do you do to get through hard times? Learn about The Bengsons and their story of grief and joy, the role of music in resilience, how access is woven into the production, and more. And then, join us at the Workshop to see the show and celebrate our joy and community!

March 24, 2026 by NYTW Education & Engagement

Before seeing TARTUFFE at the Workshop, we recommend that you pop
over to “The Brief” Study Guide, where you’ll learn from all that’s inside
about topics like comedy and farce, themes of hypocrisy, and even could parse
through the difference between rhymes made by Lucas Hnath and Moliére.
Whether a student or curious theatregoer, we’re excited to share
this knowledge about the show—and then see you there!

December 5, 2025 by NYTW Education & Engagement