For much of its recorded history, theatre has been used as a tool to illuminate societal ills. In Luna Gale, playwright Rebecca Gilman explores the difficult subject of teenage pregnancy and drug addiction in an honest narrative about two teens struggling to make the best of their circumstances. When 19-year-olds Peter and Karlie take their months-old infant Luna to the hospital for what turns out to be dehydration, they fall under the attention of veteran social worker Caroline. Crashing from a meth high, Peter is barely coherent and Karlie is beside herself because she isn’t allowed to see her daughter. A custody battle ensues between the teen parents and Karlie’s deeply religious mother, Cindy. Overworked and burned out, Caroline has to decide which side to advocate for in a system that feels like it favors no winners. A number of relevant issues intersect in Luna Gale, including child abuse, drug addiction, and teen pregnancy. These are layered and difficult topics, but with Gilman’s delicate handling, the play is a great option to spur a meaningful dialogue with audiences.
Luna Gale guide sections
