Behind the Sun

By Stanley Kipper and Laura Drake 
Directed by Richard D. Thompson 

September 21–October 13, 2024

Behind the Sun is an important story and part of Minnesota and American history. – Play Off the Page
A true caper story that’s entertaining, educational and valuable – Pioneer Press

Behind the Sun
holds a history lesson that might be tough to tackle for some, but it does so with a humanity that no history book can evoke. – Pioneer Press
Obie Kipper has finally found the house of his dreams, but there’s one problem: it’s 1956 and Obie’s dream for the future of his family lies outside his redlined neighborhood, in an all-white neighborhood. With help from an old friend and coworker, Obie puts in motion a sensational scheme to purchase the house. This may either land him in jail or help chart the future for his family and all of Minneapolis.
Based on the lives of playwright Stan Kipper’s family, experience this story of community, family, and the lengths some had to go through to achieve the American Dream.

The reviews are in
Learn more about the show: 

Photos: Stanley Kipper, Mapping Prejudice

The Cast

Ticket pricing

For more information, visit Ticket Information

  • Adults/Seniors: $25-64
  • Students: $15
  • Balcony Seating: There are 15 steps to balcony seating. No elevator is available. If this is a concern for you or your party, please contact the box office at 651-292-4323. 

Read the Playbill

This production has closed.

100 minutes with a 15-minute intermission

Content warning: The production uses historically accurate language that some may find offensive, adult language, and loud sounds (gunshots, vehicles, glass shattering).

 

Cast

Charla Marie Bailey*: Mary Kipper
Darius Dotch*: Obie Kipper      
Jane Froiland*: Angela Kaplan 
Joshaviah Kawala: Tyler Kipper
James Ramlet: Merle Swanson     
Scott Witebsky* : Abraham Kaplan

*member of Actors’ Equity Association

Creative team

Playwright and co-creator: Laura Drake*
Playwright and co-creator: Stanley Kipper
Director: Richard D. Thompson

Scenic Designer: Rick Polenek 

Costume Designer: Meghan Kent 

Lighting Designer: Karin Olson#

Sound Designer: Katharine Horowitz 
Properties Designer: Kirby Moore
Stage Manager: Laura Topham* 

Assistant Stage Manager: Abby Lienhard 
Intimacy Coach: Elizabeth M. Desotelle*

Technical Director: Gunther Gullickson 

Master Electrician: Nick Walberg 
Lead Carpenter: Evan Sima
Scenic Charge Artist: Erika Soukup

*member of Actors’ Equity Association
# Member of United Scenic Artists Local #829