The cast of “The Minutes” in Concord’s Town House. Courtesy photo

Umbrella’s post-show ‘talkback’ to address issues around Concord history

March 11, 2024

By Laurie O’Neill — Correspondent

Imagine a small-town City Council meeting where members plan a major historical commemoration and monument. In the process, they uncover secrets regarding the area’s original inhabitants and settlers and explore questions about how to represent the past, who gets to write history, and whose stories go represented and why.  

Concordians may relate to this issue, which is the subject of the current production at the Umbrella Arts Center.  

“The Minutes,” a Pulitzer- and Tony-nominated play by Tracy Letts, marks its Greater Boston Premiere and will be presented on the center’s Main Stage until March 24. A “talkback” for the audience will follow the March 14 performance and address the challenge of grappling with unpleasant truths about a town’s history.  

A panel of Concord DEI, Concord250, and Visitors Center members will address issues and answer questions on Concord’s tercentenary markers and indigenous history, Ellen Garrison, planning for the 250th celebration, and more topics of local interest.  

To purchase tickets for March 14 or another performance, visit umbrellaarts.org.