Junot Diaz's Pulitzer-winning Novel Comes To The Stage

Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Junot Diaz, this new stage version by Marco Antonio Rodriguez has its world premiere at Chicago's Goodman Theater in spring 2026. Telling a story of love and perseverance through the experiences of the titular Oscar, this adaptation of the beloved book will be directed by Chicago's own Wendy Mateo.

What Is The Story?

Oscar is certain that his family is cursed. Dominican-born and raised in New Jersey, Oscar is obsessed with fantasy, sci-fi - and falling in love. Travelling back to the Dominican Republic, Oscar finds love in sex worker Ybon - but her violent boyfriend is determined to keep Oscar away from her, by any means necessary. Tackling themes of sexuality and Dominican identity, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao is a powerful tale of perseverance in a world that seems set against you.