Death of a Salesman is a classic American play by Arthur Miller that explores the disillusionment and struggles of Willy Loman, an aging salesman in post-World War II America. Willy is a man whose lifelong pursuit of success and the American Dream has left him feeling unfulfilled and desperate. As he grapples with his waning career and the reality of his own failures, Willy's mental state begins to unravel, blurring the line between his memories, dreams, and present-day life.

The play delves into Willy's relationships with his wife, Linda, and his two sons, Biff and Happy. Biff, once a high school football star with dreams of greatness, has grown disillusioned with his father’s ideals and their strained relationship highlights the conflict between illusion and reality. Happy, on the other hand, continues to chase superficial success. Through flashbacks and present-day interactions, Miller paints a poignant portrait of a man who is unable to accept the truth about himself and his family. Death of a Salesman is a powerful examination of the cost of chasing unattainable dreams, the pressures of societal expectations, and the haunting question of what defines a successful life.

RiverTowne Players is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enriching and entertaining the residents of Eastern North Carolina by providing high-quality theatre. Our mission is to offer a platform for local actors, musicians, and artists to showcase their talents.

We are proud to call the historic Masonic Theatre our home. Originally opened in 1805, the Masonic Theatre was once the cultural heart of New Bern, hosting stage plays, talent benefits, concerts, and vaudeville acts. During the Civil War, it served as a Confederate arsenal and later as a hospital for Union soldiers. In 1917, it was converted into a motion picture theater, operating continuously until 1974, making it the nation's oldest continually operating theatre until its closure.

Today, the Masonic Theatre has been lovingly restored to its original purpose of live entertainment. Visitors can experience the unique ambiance of the oldest working theatre in the United States while enjoying a RiverTowne Players production.

Location:
Masonic Theatre
514 Hancock Street
New Bern, NC 28560