"Sally & Tom: A Meta-Play Confronting Plantation Scandal and Power Dynamics"

Suzan-Lori Parks's new play "Sally & Tom" at the Public Theater cleverly intertwines the story of Sally Hemings and Thomas Jefferson with the backstage drama of a theater troupe putting on a play about their relationship. The play within the play, "The Pursuit of Happiness," explores the complexities of their relationship, with the playwright and star, Luce, grappling with the idea of portraying it as a love story. Parks skillfully navigates the intertwining narratives, offering a thought-provoking and humorous take on this historical scandal.