Tribes

An Unvarnished Love Story

How well do we really know the people we love? The answer, inevitably: not nearly as well as we think. Take this family – creative, charismatic. Razor sharp in intellect and in tongue. It’s a routine they’ve been running forever, and with their once empty nest recently refilled, they’ve got every beat in its perfect place. Or so they think. For one son who is Deaf, a new world is opening; one his family has long locked away from him. If he walks into that world, can they hold onto their funny, dysfunctional dynamic? Should they? Family drama of the best variety – hilarious and fearless and messy, featuring a cast that will make you feel right at home. Runs August 2 - September 27.

Featuring: Joshua Castille, Jim DeVita, Maggie Cramer, Casey Hoekstra, Colleen Madden, Lindsay Welliver

American Sign Language will be used during portions of this production.*

This play is served with a hearty side of spicy language. Sensitive viewers please take note.

Synopsis

There is the family we choose, and the one we’re born to. And neither are perfect. When Billy, Ruth and Daniel – Beth and Christopher’s adult children – all move home, the rivalry is intense among this group of “creatives.” But not for Billy, who is the sole deaf member of this hearing family. The family made the decision long ago that Billy should not learn sign language, and instead learn to read lips. But when he meets Sylvia, whose parents are deaf, and who is coping with losing her own hearing, Billy’s world opens up as she teaches him to sign. What his family makes of this new world is another thing entirely, as they try to elevate themselves while holding Billy at status quo in this funny, biting play.

Featuring Joshua Castille as Billy.

Contains adult themes & language. For more information call the Box Office at 608-588-2361.

*In the 2025 Brochure, the Tribes page states that British Sign Language (BSL) will be used. This sign language used in this production has since been changed to American Sign Language (ASL). Also, all performances of Tribes will be in the Touchstone Theatre. We apologize for any confusion.