THE STORY: It’s 1952. A young Richard Nixon is campaigning as his party’s candidate for Vice-President, his wife Pat proudly at his side, when an accusation of financial impropriety almost ends his promising career. In a momentous speech, he takes charge of his fate, and changes the character of American politics forever. CHECKERS is a revelatory look at Nixon’s drive, history and most surprisingly, his marriage to Pat—all of which are explored with insight, blistering wit and unexpected tenderness.
“In this year of electoral ambivalence, an unlikely candidate to root for has arisen in New York. The relevance of CHECKERS is undeniable.” —The New York Times.
“CHECKERS is fascinating! CHECKERS is an event rather than a mere commentary on the Republican party’s poisoned past.” —Village Voice.
“An engaging new play! CHECKERS skillfully makes history come alive.” —New York Magazine.
“Playwright Douglas McGrath has skillfully imagined Pat’s early, lady-like feistiness as Nixon’s loyal political partner…spirited…compelling.” —Associated Press.
“If we must have a play about Richard and Pat Nixon, then Douglas McGrath makes a damned good job of it in CHECKERS.” —Variety.
