85 pages • 2 hours read
Moises KaufmanThe Laramie Project
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2001A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Laramie Project by Moisés Kaufman and the Tectonic Theatre Project chronicles the aftermath of the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man in Laramie, Wyoming, through interviews conducted by the theatre company with local residents, police, and friends of Shepard. The play explores themes of homophobia, hatred, and tolerance, culminating in the trials of Shepard's murderers and the societal impact of the tragedy. The play features depictions of violence, hate crimes, and loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman receives acclaim for its raw and powerful portrayal of a community's response to tragedy. Critics praise its innovative documentary-theater format and emotional depth. However, some find its structure disjointed and character portrayals uneven. Overall, it is lauded for fostering dialogue on important issues.
Who Should Read The Laramie Project?
Readers who appreciate the profound societal impact of plays similar to The Crucible by Arthur Miller or Angels in America by Tony Kushner will find The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman compelling. It appeals to those interested in real-life events and social justice, blending documentary theater with powerful narratives on human rights.