Sweat

SWEAT
By Lynn Nottage
Directed by Zindzi Okenyo

Blood, sweat and explosive drama

Lynn Nottage is the superstar writer of two Pulitzer Prize-winning plays and, in 2023, became America’s most produced living playwright. In 2024, Sydney Theatre Company will mount the Australian premiere of her second Pulitzer winner Sweat, the critically acclaimed slice-of-life masterpiece, starring Australian acting icons Paula Arundell and Lisa McCune.

Set in Reading, Pennsylvania, Sweat tells the story of a group of factory workers trying to keep their heads above water as the American steel industry collapses around them. At the centre of this group are Tracy, Cynthia and Jessie – three old friends who’ve seen each other through everything; births, deaths, marriages and a single workplace for their entire adult lives. When Tracy (McCune) and Cynthia (Arundell) go for the same, long-fought-for promotion, deeply buried tensions begin to boil over into a compelling and touching drama.

Since its premiere, Sweat has captured audience imaginations in extended runs on both Broadway and the West End. In this new production, Director Zindzi Okenyo (Is God Is) will create a moving, and absorbing piece featuring a cast of eight incredible actors, including Gabriel Alvarado, Yure Covich, James Fraser, Deborah Galanos, Markus Hamilton and Tinashe Mangwana. Don’t miss your chance to experience this landmark of new American theatre in the intimacy of The Wharf.

Approx. duration 2 hrs 20 mins (including interval). Subject to change.
Content Frequent strong language, racist and ableist language, racist symbolism, drug use, violence, smoking, and use of theatrical blood. Subject to change.