Pass Over

Written by Antoinette Nwandu
Awards:

  • Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Play (2018)

Synopsis
Pass Over is a powerful and poetic drama that reimagines Waiting for Godot through the lens of systemic racism and police brutality in America. The play follows two young Black men, Moses and Kitch, who spend their days on an urban street corner dreaming of escape to a promised land. Their banter is disrupted by two figures: a white man named Mister and a white police officer named Ossifer. Through its raw dialogue and surrealist elements, Pass Over explores themes of hope, oppression, and the cyclical nature of violence.

Themes and Analysis

  • Systemic Racism: The play highlights the pervasive and inescapable nature of racism in American society, particularly its impact on Black men.

  • Hope and Despair: Moses and Kitch’s dreams of a better life are juxtaposed with the harsh realities of their existence, creating a poignant tension.

  • Surrealism and Allegory: The play uses surreal elements and Biblical references to elevate its commentary on societal structures and individual resilience.

  • Friendship and Survival: The bond between Moses and Kitch is central to the narrative, offering moments of levity and humanity amidst the play’s darker themes.

Key Moments

  • The Opening Scene: Moses and Kitch’s playful banter introduces their camaraderie and establishes the bleakness of their reality.

  • Mister’s Visit: The enigmatic white man’s interactions with Moses and Kitch bring underlying tensions to the surface, reflecting the insidiousness of privilege.

  • Ossifer’s Confrontation: The arrival of the police officer shifts the tone of the play, culminating in a moment of shocking violence.

  • The Climactic Revelation: The play’s conclusion offers a surreal and powerful commentary on the cyclical nature of oppression and the enduring hope for liberation.

Critical Reception
Pass Over was widely praised for its bold storytelling and searing commentary on race and violence. Critics commended Antoinette Nwandu for blending humour, tragedy, and political urgency into a deeply impactful theatrical experience.

The New York Times called it “an endlessly provocative piece of theatre,” while The Guardian described it as “a fierce and uncompromising work that demands attention.”

Why It Resonates Today
In a world increasingly focused on social justice and racial equity, Pass Over serves as a vital and urgent exploration of systemic inequality. Its blend of raw emotion and sharp critique ensures its continued relevance.

Fun Facts

  • Pass Over was the first play to stream on Amazon Prime after its stage performance was filmed by Spike Lee.

  • The play draws inspiration from Waiting for Godot and the Book of Exodus, combining existential and Biblical themes.

  • The Broadway production, which opened in 2021, marked Nwandu’s debut on Broadway and earned critical acclaim.