"Angels in America": Art under attack in three theaters

This thesis examines the attempts to suppress three different productions of Tony Kushner's play Angels in America and key issues faced by those presenting institutions under attack. The case of Charlotte Repertory Theatre focuses on the efficacy of attempts to prevent controversy. Catholic University of America's case focuses on academic freedom coming into conflict with religious teachings. Finally, in the case of Kilgore College, the thesis focuses on how a controversy over a play can turn into a personal attack. The thesis reflects analytical thinking about attempts to suppress theater in the three specific cases. Information is drawn primarily from organizational and legal documents, articles, books, interviews, and the text of Angels in America. Based on this analysis and the facts of each case, recommendations are made for theaters presenting potentially controversial works (also applicable to other arts presenters).