The Hanging Tree by Yussef El Guindi

When a teenager attempts suicide by hanging in a wooded area, the tree that he's using refuses to cooperate. A conversation ensues between this enchanted tree and the teenager. A couple from another time emerge and try to dissuade the teenager from ending his life. The couple have their own past with the tree and suicide; and as the teenager works through his demons, they work through theirs. “The Hanging...
When a teenager attempts suicide by hanging in a wooded area, the tree that he's using refuses to cooperate. A conversation ensues between this enchanted tree and the teenager. A couple from another time emerge and try to dissuade the teenager from ending his life. The couple have their own past with the tree and suicide; and as the teenager works through his demons, they work through theirs. “The Hanging Tree” is a fable of teenage angst and racial divides which explores love, death, and choice using magical realism and memory.
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The Hanging Tree

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  • Christopher LaBanca:
    5 May. 2020
    “ Such a lovely, lovely play. It's sad, and it's sweet, but I'm especially fond of the abomination presented at the end. Introducing just a little bit of grotesque horror in a truthful moment really makes this a play I'd like to produce. ”
  • Milan Levy:
    3 Nov. 2019
    “ This piece is beautiful and riveting! Guindi highlights the value of life and discusses the issues that are present when looking at suicide and what causes one to have these thoughts and feelings. Through realistic fantasy, comedy and deep human interactions, Guindi tells a story that showcases the effects of love and morality. Definitely recommend. ”
  • Cheryl Bear:
    31 Jul. 2019
    “ Bravo! I absolutely love this. Beautifully told and exceptionally well handled, an extremely needed piece of theatre. Highly recommend! ”