Liberation (w/ Amanda Wheeler)

Liberation is a new play by Bess Wohl that examines the promises and contradictions of second-wave feminism through a dual-timeline narrative spanning the 1970s and the present day. Originally developed and produced by Roundabout Theatre Company, the play premiered Off-Broadway in early 2025 before transferring to Broadway in a production directed by Whitney White. Set largely in a community gymnasium in Ohio, the play follows a group of women participating in a consciousness-raising circle while a present-day narrator attempts to piece together the legacy—and limitations—of that movement. Host Andrew Cole is joined by guest host Amanda "Wheels" Wheeler for a wide-ranging conversation on the play's performances, staging, and thematic resonance. Together, they unpack the show's use of direct address, its shifting portrayal of memory and identity, and the ways it interrogates feminism across generations. The discussion also explores standout character dynamics, the play's handling of race and intersectionality, and how Liberation ultimately functions as both a reflection on progress and a call to action for audiences today. ***** CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro / Setting the Stage 1:48 - Welcome Amanda Wheeler 10:14 - Hot Takes 25:56 - Big Feels 40:30 - Should You See It? 45:12 - Outro ***** LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SHOW Liberation Website: https://liberationbway.com/  ***** GUEST HOST LOVE Visit Wheels' Website: https://www.amandawheeler.com/ Connect on IG: https://www.instagram.com/wheelssnacks  ***** SUPPORT CRITICAL DARLING Spotify - Follow, Listen & Watch https://tinyurl.com/critical-darling-spotify  YouTube - Subscribe & Watch https://tinyurl.com/critical-darling-youtube  Apple Podcasts - Follow & Listen https://tinyurl.com/critical-darling-apple  Instagram - Follow & Connect https://tinyurl.com/critical-darling-instagram  Amazon Music - Follow & Listen https://tinyurl.com/critical-darling-amazon  TikTok - Follow & Connect https://tinyurl.com/critical-darling-tiktok