Processional

"Processional: A Jazz Symphony of American Life" is a groundbreaking work of American Expressionism that captures the frenetic, dissonant energy of the 1920s. This "jazz symphony" in dramatic form breaks traditional theatrical boundaries by blending vaudeville, burlesque, and musical elements to portray a nation in social and industrial turmoil.

Set against the stark backdrop of a coal miners' strike in West Virginia, the play explores clashing forces of labor unrest, radicalism, and the pervasive influence of reactionary movements. Through its rhythmic dialogue and episodic structure, the work examines the complex tapestry of American identity, highlighting the visceral struggles between capital and labor. John Howard Lawson utilizes the metaphor of the processional to illustrate the chaotic, often violent movement of a society caught in rapid transition. As a seminal piece of early 20th-century political theater, "Processional" offers a biting social satire that remains a significant study of class conflict and cultural shifts in the United States. It stands as a vital example of experimental drama, reflecting the avant-garde spirit and social consciousness of the era.

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