New Play Calls For Action On A.I.D.S. (Press, 10 June 1985)

In a powerful statement, New York writer Larry Kramer expressed the urgency of action in the face of the AIDS epidemic, declaring, “We are dying and no-one is fighting to save us; we are going to have to do it ourselves.” As the search for a cure for the deadly disease A.I.D.S. continues, Kramer is advocating for a more forceful public response. In his new play, “The Normal Heart,” he argues that shouting for change is the only viable solution and stresses the importance of fighting for rights, particularly for minorities. Kramer critiques the slow governmental response to the AIDS crisis, arguing that both the media and medical organisations are failing to adequately address the issue, which has predominantly affected male homosexuals. The play is aimed at raising public awareness and is positioned as both a political and polemical piece intended to expose what Kramer describes as the “outrageous malfeasances” occurring in this context. Currently running at Joseph Papp’s off-Broadway public theatre, “The Normal Heart” follows the character Ned Weeks, portrayed by Brad Davis. Weeks is based on Kramer himself and fights to establish an AIDS crisis centre during the early days of the pandemic. This reflects Kramer’s real-life involvement as one of the founders of the New York-based homosexual men’s health crisis formed in 1982, in response to the lack of services for AIDS victims. Throughout the play, Weeks's journey becomes increasingly fraught as he grapples with disorganisation within the activist community and frustrations with what he sees as a lack of cooperation. Critically, Kramer does not spare leaders within the homosexual community from his critique, suggesting that their fear of confronting the broader “straight majority” has hindered their ability to push for necessary research and government assistance. Kramer succinctly notes that the play addresses the human response to threats against one's best interests, be it health or other concerns. He observes that when faced with danger, many individuals resort to denial and avoidance rather than confront the reality of the situation. With a history of writing controversial works, including the best-selling novel “Faggots,” Kramer expresses hope that “The Normal Heart” will eventually be adapted into a film to broaden its reach and impact. He believes in the need for more substantial action in combating the epidemic, stating, “It makes me feel good to see people cry every night during my play. It would make me even happier to see those tears lead to action.”

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