“Indeed, Christopher Demos-Brown’s new play is highly didactic, addressing the conflicts that prevail between the police and the Black Lives Matter movement.”
PLAYCLOSED
American Son
Opened Nov 4, 2018 · Closed Jan 27, 2019 · Ran for 2 months
7 Rave
21 Positive
6 Mixed
7 Negative
Critics' Take
Critics praise Kerry Washington's powerful performance in this tense, topical drama about a mother searching for her missing son, though many find Christopher Demos-Brown's play overly didactic and schematic in its treatment of race relations.
This show has closed. Tickets are no longer available.
Critic Scorecard
41 reviews7 Rave
21 Positive
6 Mixed
7 Negative
Sort:
“Indeed, this harrowing journey directed by Kenny Leon apportions out compassion and criticism for every character.”
“The result of so much good work is American Son, a profound and unforgettable evening at the theater that challenges the mind, leaves the audience visibly moved, and enhances the Broadway season.”
“Call this one In Search of A Play.”
“In the end, American Son transcends color, expressing the anguish all mothers endure for their sons in danger.”
Audience Scorecard
1.1K audience reviews
A-
Liking It
Box Office Scorecard
source · Broadway League, publicAll Time
Frequently Asked Questions
What do critics say about American Son?
Critics praise Kerry Washington's powerful performance in this tense, topical drama about a mother searching for her missing son, though many find Christopher Demos-Brown's play overly didactic and schematic in its treatment of race relations. (CriticScore 69/100 from 41 reviews.)
Is American Son worth seeing?
Probably, if the material interests you. Critics say American Son is worth seeing (69/100 from 41 reviews) — it works best if the premise or cast appeals to you.
What is the CriticScore for American Son?
American Son has a CriticScore of 69/100 based on 41 professional reviews. This is rated "Worth Seeing".
Is American Son still running on Broadway?
No, American Son has closed. It played at Booth Theatre and closed on January 27, 2019.
Theater Scorecard
Typical VenueThe Booth Theatre offers good sightlines with a well-raked mezzanine and clear views from most seats, though legroom can be tight. The theater's elegant, European-inspired design adds to its charm, while sound quality is consistently praised. Facilities are average, with typical restroom and concession offerings.
Original Broadway Cast
- Steven PasqualeScott
- Kerry WashingtonKendra
- Jeremy JordanOfficer Paul Larkin
- Eugene LeeLieutenant John Stokes
Creative Team
- Kenny LeonDirector
- Christopher Demos-BrownPlaywright
Quick Facts
- CriticScore
- 69/100 (41 reviews)
- Status
- Closed
- Opened
- Nov 4, 2018
- Closed
- Jan 27, 2019
- Run Length
- 2 months
- Synopsis
- A Florida police station in the middle of the night; a mother searching for her missing teenage son. "American Son" is a gripping tale of two parents caught in our national divide, with their worst fears hanging in the balance.
- Data Last Updated
- October 7, 2026
