By Michael Gene Sullivan
Directed by Jess McLeod

The laughs come quickly in Michael Gene Sullivan’s provocative and brilliant new play.
 
Jayden, an African American teenager, just wants to be his game-playing, nerdy self. But after he saves a girl, Ant, from an assault by a gang of boys, he and his mother are forced to move to keep him safe from those who attacked her. While Jayden debates with himself if he should toughen up, Ant tries to reject the tough Black girl persona she has adopted. Both are trying to figure out how to define themselves in a culture that insists on seeing them as forever dangerous. Oh, and then Genghis Khan shows up.
 
With fierce conviction and playful humor, The Great Khan reflects on the beauty of youth - that magical space between adolescence and adulthood. It also deftly addresses challenges Black teens currently face in the U.S.; issues relating to who writes history and how that can determine your present and future.
 

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Reviews

"Funny, fast-paced and crackling... whip-smart ‘Great Khan’ up-ends racial stereotypes with biting humor."
San Diego Union-Tribune

“The Great Khan builds whole kingdoms out of its characters’ imaginations”
San Francisco Chronicle
 
“Michael Gene Sullivan fills the house with laughter in addition to thoughtfulness and social reflection.”
Berkshire Fine Arts

“Michael Gene Sullivan has certainly entertained the audience with this amazing new play, but The Great Khan is far more than entertainment. It's a view of history and culture and humanity that would be incredibly important at any point in time, but is especially important now, as we continue to struggle to excise the racism that is deep in the bones of American culture.”
Talkin’ Broadway

"High quality and satisfying"
San Diego Story

"This show doesn’t stop at a great script and excellent acting. The Great Khan is political theater at its finest and funniest. Don’t miss it."
San Diego Stage and Screen

"Sullivan has a slick way with rapid-fire dialogue, a fascinating perspective and a lot to say."
Times of San Diego
 

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Discover More

 

Program Book
Read the digital program book - click to access as pdf

Read: The Great Khan is Worth the Wait - a word from Jess McLeod
Photos: Introducing the cast of The Great Khan
Read: Curious REPort for The Great Khan
Watch: Mikayla Bartholomew in Rehearsal
Listen: Playwright Michael Gene Sullivan talks to KPBS about writing The Great Khan
 

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Duration
Approx. 1 hr 50 mins including one 15 min intermission

Content
This play includes strong language, adult themes, use of theatrical fog. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects, please get in touch with our Box Office at boxoffice@sdrep.org or 619.544.1000 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.

Sensory Friendly Guide 
Be sure to visit sdrep.org/sfguide for a sensory friendly guide to visiting the theatre (with accessiblity descriptions).