Gracie McGraw, Jackera Davis, and members of the cast in 1972. Photo: Nile Scott Studios

Presented by the American Repertory Theater 
Music and Lyrics by Chadwick Stokes
Book by Chadwick Stokes and Jessie Nelson
Created by Chadwick Stokes
Directed by Jessie Nelson

November 1 – December 6, 2026
Farkas Hall
12 Holyoke Street
Cambridge, MA 02138

Critique by Maegan Clearwood

80 minutes with no intermission

1972 contains descriptions of domestic violence and abortions. This production contains loud music and flashing lights. Recommended for ages 14+.

TL;DR: 1972 rocks but, for a musical about abortion, is weighed down by men. 

CAMBRIDGE, MA — Not 24 hours after news of the breathtakingly anticipated Blue Wave, I had the privilege of hearing these words belted to the highest heavens by Khaila Wilcoxon:

“It’s your God-given right
It’s your goddamn decision,
Do with it as you like.”

Words that are explicitly, unapologetically about abortion; stripping the act of all taboo; celebrating the women who paved the way to universal, safe access through direct action.  Continue reading →