The Measure of Innocence

by Anya Pearson

“Some rise by sin, some by virtue fall.” Drawing on Shakespeare’s penchant for blending the comic and the tragic, playwright Anya Pearson (Made to Dance in Burning Buildings) adds her own unique command of language, humor, and social insight to this reimagining of Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure through the all-too-relevant lens of the systemically unjust criminal justice system and the contemporary Black...

“Some rise by sin, some by virtue fall.” Drawing on Shakespeare’s penchant for blending the comic and the tragic, playwright Anya Pearson (Made to Dance in Burning Buildings) adds her own unique command of language, humor, and social insight to this reimagining of Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure through the all-too-relevant lens of the systemically unjust criminal justice system and the contemporary Black Lives Matter movement. Set in our current fractured political landscape, The Measure of Innocence is a captivating new dramedy about the dichotomy between corruption and humanity, morality and mercy.

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The Measure of Innocence

Recommended by

  • Shaun Leisher: The Measure of Innocence

    Pearson breathes new life into this problem play of Shakespeare. The playwright shows great skill at subverting the classic text while also acknowledging it's place in theatrical history. Even if you don't know Measure For Measure this is a brilliant commentary on police brutality and white silence. Through the use of naturalism, poetry and dance, Pearson has created an indictment to white theatre audiences that I hope they take the time to sit in before doing what's necessary to change.

    Pearson breathes new life into this problem play of Shakespeare. The playwright shows great skill at subverting the classic text while also acknowledging it's place in theatrical history. Even if you don't know Measure For Measure this is a brilliant commentary on police brutality and white silence. Through the use of naturalism, poetry and dance, Pearson has created an indictment to white theatre audiences that I hope they take the time to sit in before doing what's necessary to change.

Awards

  • Kilroys List 2020
    Kilroys List
    Selection
    2020
  • Drammy Award for Best Original Script
    Drammy Awards
    Winner
    2020