Erica Sutherlin's contemporary spin on ‘Dutchman’ opens at St. Pete's American Stage next month

First presented in 1960s New York City, 'Dutchman' sought to explore themes of race and identity amid the Civil Rights Movement.

By Chloe Greenberg on Thu, Jun 23, 2022 at 12:51 pm

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Photo via American Stage/Flickr

Director Erica Sutherlin works with the cast od Amiri Baraka/Leroi Jones' 'The Dutchman.'

First presented in 1960s New York City, “Dutchman” sought to explore themes of race and identity amid the Civil Rights Movement. Now, the timeless play by Amiri Baraka will be revisited and brought to Tampa Bay this summer.

St. Petersburg’s American Stage—located at 163 3rd St. N—is set to present a contemporary spin on the classic “Dutchman” with shows starting July 1 and running through July 31. Single tickets start at $45; opening night admission starts at $75.

Set in New York City, “Dutchman” tells the story of a white woman and Black man as they meet and interact in ways that explore the intersections of race, identity and political ideologies. The play won an Obie Award and was adapted into a film in ‘67.

This modern look at the play is directed by Erica Sutherlin, recently appointed as American Stage’s new director of community engagement.

“Dutchman” will run Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Two preview showings will be offered on June 29-30 for a pay-what-you-can rate or $20 in advance.

More information about the show and ticket pricing can be found at americanstage.org.