Join us for Bastard Nation, the final play in a trilogy, explores the shadow aspects of adoption through a comedic lens. exploring tenets of the reproductive justice crisis in the United States today.
BASTARD NATION: decolonizing love and family
Following the death of the family Matriarch, siblings grapple with secrets revealed in her will. Adoption is only one of the discoveries they face as they redefine their sense of family.
Bastard Nation explores the disconnect experienced by people impacted by adoption and forced childbearing. And the generational curses enacted by these experiences
The Trilogy productions to date have included two plays exploring tenets of the reproductive justice crisis in the United States today.
Operating Theatre is a farce with a young female protagonist seeking abortion care for an unintended pregnancy. In order to access care she must endure a cruise ship game-show set of hoops to jump through until the ship enters the neutral waters.
Open Up the Kingdom Mama is a vexing modern day tragedy representing the impact reproductive restrictions have on maternity care. This play also addresses the medical system’s lack of understanding older women’s sexual health needs.
Open Up the Kingdom Mama was described as “laugh-out-loud funny with a truly diverse cast that delivers the drama and the comedy-while also delivering a play that addresses the abortion issue in the right-wing restrictions of ‘red state’ Louisiana legislation. It may sound like a downer to go see a play about this issue, but it’s exemplary of the kudos that playwright Anita Vatshell deserves for exploring this poignant theme with sensitivity and wit.” Jose Torres-Tama
Anita Vatshell is a 2025-2026 Season Resident Artist.