A Noble Failure
2 F/4M
In a world overburdened by standardized testing and measurement, A Noble Failure chronicles a teacher and principal who attempt to shield a beloved public school from the forces of privatization.
. . . A Noble Failure succeeds by all theatrical measures: empathetic, deeply rounded characters, bitingly witty, authentic dialogue; taut narrative arc spurred by multiple levels of conflict . . . But more so, it achieves a grander goal: the expression and transmission of deeper cultural ideas and meanings.
— Aaron Scott, Portland Monthly
“My thoughts about education and measurement put me at odds with the law of the land (which is No Child Left Behind), but they align me just about perfectly with local playwright Susan Mach’s new play, A Noble Failure, a smart, sharp and polished play . . .”
— Barry Johnson, Oregon Arts Watch
“That the playwright (who’s also a teacher) takes the side of the traditional establishment doesn’t diminish the play’s value as a springboard for discussion . . .”
— Marty Hughley, The Oregonian