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History Theatre seeks revival of 1999 play for 50th anniversary; Senate file laid over
Summary
Senate File 374 requests support for a revival of a 1999 History Theatre production about Hmong American veterans and community history. Testimony emphasized the play’s role in remembering local immigrant contributions and in the theatre’s mission to stage history-based works.
Sen. Zong presented Senate File 374 on Feb. 11, asking the committee to consider funding to revive a 1999 History Theatre production that tells the story of Hmong contributions to the United States and local communities. The play, first staged at the History Theatre, follows themes of immigration, wartime contribution and citizenship.
Why it matters: Testimony emphasized the cultural and historical value of staging the play again for the theatre’s 50th anniversary and highlighted the History Theatre’s unique mission to produce history-based works.
Richard Thompson, artistic director of History Theatre, described the company as “the only theater company in America where the mission is to present work that deals with history,” and said reviving the production would honor Hmong community history and contribute to public understanding. Karen Mueller, managing director of History Theatre, said the company commissions new history-based work and hires local professional artists to bring that work to the stage.
Sen. Zong and committee members noted the play’s personal and communal significance; the file was laid over for possible inclusion in the Legacy omnibus bill for further consideration.
Ending: The committee laid Senate File 374 over for possible inclusion; theatre staff said they would respond to any additional questions and support outreach to increase public engagement.
