SANCTUARY CITY
by Martyna Majok
directed by Nathan Motta
April 23 - May 17, 2026
Winner! 2023 Obie Award for Playwriting
Cleveland Premiere
Run time: 100 minutes
no intermission
Content Advisory: Adult Language, Adult Situations, Descriptions of Violence
The story
What would you risk for someone you love? 2001. Newark, NJ. Two teenagers, brought to the United States as children, now face an uneasy question: what are they willing to sacrifice for a future together in the only country they've ever known? The simple joys of coming-of-age are challenged by the uncertainty of their next chapters. Theirs is a story that fractures time and transcends memory—crossing boundaries, borders and genres in search of a safe place to call home. Pulitzer Prize-winner Martyna Majok brings light to the obstacles faced by DREAMers, lovers and lifelong friends in the heart-stirring and hopeful Sanctuary City.
““Stunningly beautiful and... emotionally immersive.””
The Artists
The Production
FULL CIRCLE PARTNERS
ACLU Ohio
Cleveland Heights for Immigrant Rights
Esperanza, Inc.
Margaret W. Wong & Associates
*Representatives from these organizations will be participating in talkbacks after the performances on Saturday, May 2nd, May 9th, and May 16th, sharing about their work through a discussion of the themes of Sanctuary City.
The Response
The Audience
Dobama Theatre offers audience members ways to interact with the art through our audience engagement programs. All audience engagement offerings are FREE with your membership or ticket purchase.
Learn more about our audience engagement offerings →
HENRY