First generation | April 15-19
a world premiere play commissioned for Spinning Tree Theatre
FIRST GENERATION by Victor Wishna
When high-schooler Ruthie volunteers in a classroom for young refugees, she clashes with Patience, a sharp and guarded student who challenges her assumptions. But a chance encounter with a mysterious young woman—foreign yet oddly familiar—forces Ruthie to confront a critical question: What does it truly mean to welcome the stranger, and what am I willing to do about it?
Inspired by real-life experiences of young refugees, First Generation is a thought-provoking and urgently relevant new play about identity, belonging, and the power of empathy—inviting audiences to explore the complexities of finding home in a new world.
PERFORMANCES
Tuesday April 15 at 7pm | ASL-interpreted | Opening Night reception
Wednesday April 16 at 2pm
Wednesday April 16 at 7pm
Thursday April 17 at 7pm | JVS Night w/ post-show talkback
Friday April 18 at 7pm | ASL-interpreted
Saturday April 19 at 2pm
FIRST GENERATION Personnel
Michael Grayman-Parkhurst, Director
Matthew Koehler, Stage Manager
Austin Cecil, Scenic Designer
Jeff Eubank, Sound Designer & Operator
Joshua Gleeson, Properties Designer
Rachael Honnold (Carney), Lighting Designer
Taylor Zimmerman, Costume Designer
Frankie Nelson, Student Asst. Stage Manager
Juliana Ladd and Lisa Wirken, ASL Interpreters
Spinning Tree Theatre is a Resident Theatre Company at
Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center | 8788 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park, Kansas
about the playwright
Victor Wishna
Spinning Tree: Teen Writers Fest ’24 & ’23. Victor is a husband, father, playwright, author, editor, and commentator, among other things. Recent works include Tree of Life and The Dreidel Players Present…Best Hanukkah Show Ever! (The White Theatre), Thank You for Meeting Me Here, Written Off (KC Actors Radio Theatre), DNR, and Shearwater (The Living Room). Upcoming: The Old Man’s War, a new play commissioned by History Theatre (St. Paul, MN), debuting in October. Victor is beyond grateful to Andy and Michael and Spinning Tree for their trust and generous spirit, to this talented cast and crew for bringing life to this brand-new piece, and to JVS and the extraordinary young people who shared their remarkable stories. Love to Annie, Vivien, and Abe.