The Inheritance: A Captivating Exploration of Gay Culture Post-AIDS

The acclaimed play ‘The Inheritance, Parts One and Two’ is currently running through November 2 at the Round House Theatre, located at 4545 East-West Highway in Bethesda, MD 20814. Tickets for this thought-provoking production start at $50, and more information can be found at the Round House Theatre’s website.

Tom Story, the director of this new regional premiere, was captivated from the moment he first experienced ‘The Inheritance’ on Broadway. The play, penned by the talented out playwright Matthew López, has received prestigious Tony and Olivier Awards for its poignant depiction of gay culture in the aftermath of the AIDS epidemic. This is precisely the kind of meaningful work Story cherishes.

‘The Inheritance’ draws inspiration from E.M. Forster’s renowned Edwardian novel ‘Howards End,’ which offers a critical exploration of class distinctions and the significance of property. However, López has recontextualized the tale, setting it in modern-day Manhattan and the Berkshires, focusing on a group of gay men rather than traditional families and couples of Edwardian England.

For Story, who identifies as gay, queer-themed productions have long been a staple in his career. He has previously directed and performed in notable works such as ‘Angels in America,’ ‘The Baltimore Waltz,’ and ‘The Normal Heart.’ These plays resonate deeply with him and often find a way into his professional journey.

Initially, the pandemic and the production’s scale posed significant challenges to staging ‘The Inheritance.’ Nonetheless, Round House Theatre’s artistic director, Ryan Rilette, was determined to bring it to the stage, and eventually, resources were secured to make this vision a reality.

The Challenges of a Two-Part Epic

Directing a two-part epic like ‘The Inheritance’ is not without its fears, as Story candidly admits. While every play comes with its unique obstacles, this production requires a diverse array of artistic techniques and a blend of styles influenced by works ranging from ‘Angels in America’ to ‘Will & Grace,’ ‘Queer as Folk,’ and of course, Forster’s ‘Howards End.’

An alumnus of Duke University and the Juilliard School, Story grew up in Northern Virginia and approached this project with a dedicated work ethic. He invested significant time in pre-production preparations, knowing that the complexity of the play demanded it. Story even turned down several acting opportunities to ensure he had ample mental and creative space to tackle the project.

One of the crucial aspects of preparation was casting. With an all-male and predominantly queer cast, the emphasis was on finding dynamic actors capable of delivering the rich, classical-feeling language. The process was meticulous, ensuring the actors could embody the multifaceted characters authentically.

A Queer Cast Telling a Queer Story

The cast’s diversity in age and experience ranges from recent college graduates to seasoned Broadway veterans, all coming together to create something truly unique. Story observes that while some of the younger actors might not fully grasp the rarity of this opportunity, they all bring their best to the table.

Previous productions have seen straight actors in these roles, but Story finds a distinct advantage in having a cast that understands the nuances of the narrative from personal experience. For instance, a monologue in Part Two about being called a derogatory term as a child holds profound significance when delivered by an actor who has lived that reality.

Staging the play presented additional hurdles, particularly due to its numerous setting changes. Renowned set designer Lee Savage was brought on board to creatively address these challenges, ensuring fluid transitions that support the storytelling. Additionally, movement and intimacy director Britta Joy Peterson, a trusted collaborator, was essential in crafting the production’s physicality.

At its core, ‘The Inheritance’ delves into themes of love, legacy, and friendship while also touching on creation, vulnerability, and the arts. These motifs resonate deeply with director Story, who sees parallels with his own journey in theater since 1998.

A Journey Worth Experiencing

Despite its length—running over three hours for each part—‘The Inheritance’ is viewed as a singular, cohesive work. Story advises audiences to witness both parts in order, promising that the narrative does not falter. With its poetic dialogue, exceptional performances, and humor, the play is a must-see experience that continues to engage audiences throughout its runtime.

‘The Inheritance’ is not just a play; it is a compelling exploration of identity and history that resonates with anyone who has grappled with the legacy of the past and the hopes of the future.