Created by (and starring) TLU seniors Ella McCarthy and JaCori Gray, HEART & THE FIST is an original production that reveals a love story set against the backdrop of war and protest—subjects that resonate today. With directing support from senior Aliyah Harris, the play follows the story of Cash and Mary, a young couple who meet in 1970 amidst the turbulence of the Vietnam War. Both are active in student protests of the draft and violence overseas. However, their world is upended when Cash receives his draft notice. Through their whirlwind romance, HEART & THE FIST explores the conflicts many young souls face during times of war—examining the human and relational impacts, ideas of masculinity, and generational trauma.

HEART & THE FIST is a featured event of XpressFest.25, the Silver Anniversary Edition of our annual showcase of student productions. Related events include senior capstone presentations by Ella and JaCori on Friday, 4-25 at 3:00 PM and a post-show Q&A with the company on Saturday, 4-26. All events will take place in the Studio Theatre, with free admission.

Viewer discretion advised: contains mature subject matter.