Duration
2 hrs with interval
Age limit
Suitable for 16+ yrs
Why Watch Liberation?
- A powerful ensemble led by Tony-nominee Bess Wohl’s sharply observed script arrives on Broadway at the heart of the action.
- This production at the James Earl Jones Theatre follows a celebrated Off-Broadway run and picks up prestigious honours such as Outer Critics Circle win, Drama Desk nods, and a cast that’s staying intact.
- Set in 1970s Ohio and the present day, the story hinges on memory, feminism, and friendship across generations, with theatrical shifts and staging to match.
- The creative team, including director Whitney White, designer David Zinn, and costume designer Qween Jean, brings a visually compelling, memory-shaped staging that resonates beyond the story.
Ever wondered what freedom really means when seen through the lens of sisterhood, revolution, and time? Liberation takes you into a 1970s Ohio basement where six women meet on a basketball court to challenge the world, then pulls you forward fifty years later as a daughter retraces the steps of their unfinished revolution. Written by Bess Wohl (whose previous Broadway work earned a Tony nomination) and directed by Whitney White, this play blends drama and memory, humour and regret. Following a praised Off-Broadway run (winning the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding New Play) the original cast moves to Broadway at the James Earl Jones Theatre.
Storyline
In the basement of a rec centre in Ohio circa 1970, Lizzie pulls together a raw consciousness-raising group of women determined to break boundaries. Flash-forward decades later, the daughter of one of those women dives into what her mother began, and what maybe fell apart. Themes of friendship, feminism, and social change collide as past and present overlap and memories are reshaped. The question becomes: what can one generation teach the next when the revolution remains unfinished? And where will that leave these women now?
Show timings
Show timings for Liberation may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles: Betsy Aidem as Margie; Audrey Corsa as Dora; Kayla Davion as Joanne; Susannah Flood as Lizzie; Kristolyn Lloyd as Celeste; Irene Sofia Lucio as Isidora; Charlie Thurston as Bill; Adina Verson as Susan.
Director: Whitney White
Producer: Daryl Roth; Eva Price; Rachel Sussman; Jenny Gersten
Playwright: Bess Wohl
Set designer: David Zinn
Costume designer: Qween Jean
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for ages 16 and above.
Content warning: The production contains adult language and nudity, and uses theatrical haze, smoke, and herbal cigarettes.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
James Earl Jones Theatre
The James Earl Jones Theatre remains one of just two enduring theaters crafted by the renowned New York architect Thomas Lamb. In 1910, John Cort established the then-named John Cort Theater as a “lucky“ venue, boasting a string of successful productions such as 'The Princess Pat' and 'The Yellow Jacket' in its history. In 2022, it was rebranded to pay tribute to the iconic actor James Earl Jones, marking it as the second establishment to bear the name of a distinguished black artist. A public event celebrated the homage, honoring Jones's extraordinary contributions throughout his illustrious career that has spanned over seven decades. The theater's design embraced a captivating French theme, showcasing a striking rectilinear facade adorned with an array of repeated geometrical units. While it shares neo-classical roots with numerous other Broadway theaters, it distinguishes itself with a stunning cream-colored facade adorned with elegant gold accents. James Earl Jones Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: 138 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036, USA
- By metro:
The nearest station is 49 Street serviced by lines N, Q, R, and W, a 2-minute walk away. Audiences can also opt for 50 Street or Times Square 42 Street depending on your point of origin.
- By bus:
The nearest bus stop to the theater is on the corner of 6 Avenue & West 45 St, serviced by lines QM1, QM5, and QM6. Audiences can also opt for W 50 St/7 Av, servicing line M40.
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Free parking
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Elevator access
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your Liberation voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The play is recommended for ages 16 and above due to nudity, mature themes around feminism, memory, and generational conflict.
At the James Earl Jones Theatre, 138 West 48th Street, in the heart of Broadway.
Set between the 1970s and today, the story follows a group of women who attempted a grassroots revolution, and the daughter who uncovers what they began decades later. It explores memory, legacy, and women rewriting their own narratives.
The running time is approximately 2 hours 30 minuites, including one intermission.
The Broadway cast includes Kara Young, April Matthis, Kristolyn Lloyd, and Quincy Tyler Bernstine, all reprising their acclaimed Off-Broadway roles.
