By Jessica Dillon
Theatreworks is presenting “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” through early February, a play that explores racial tension and family dynamics in 1960s San Francisco.
The story follows a liberal, affluent white couple whose daughter surprises them by bringing home her Black fiancé, a physician. The parents struggle to reconcile their progressive ideals with their personal feelings and hidden prejudices, while also confronting the potential disapproval of the fiancé’s parents and the family’s long-serving maid. The play’s core revolves around confronting prejudice and examining whether the family’s values extend to their own home.
Joanie McPeak, the show’s director, said she was drawn to the play for its timeless message.
“I was drawn to this one because I think it’s got a very important message, and I think the message is even more important in today’s climate than it was even 10 or 15 years ago,” McPeak said.
She added that certain scenes particularly resonate. “You see acceptance and resistance throughout the show. You see automatic acceptance and love with the monsignor. He embodies everything that Christ would stand for.”
Sarah Beth Webb, 28, plays Joanna.
“This is my ninth show here, and I did some Patriot Players shows in high school,” Webb said. “I kind of knew of the movie, but I didn’t really know much about it. I just auditioned to see what I would be like. But I just kind of went for it.”
Jonathan King, 35, plays John and auditioned specifically for the role.
“It was one of the first shows I knew I was trying out for,” King said. “I’ve done a couple of shows here, maybe four or five with the Patriots. Even though this show is set in a different time, some of the racial issues we’re tackling are still relevant today. It’s entertaining, funny, but also informative — showing how far we’ve come, but how far we still have to go.”
King said he hopes the audience reflects on the play’s themes. “There are definitely scenes within the show that I think very much apply to today,” he said. “I think it’s going to get the audience thinking.”
Bonnie Favero, 73, plays Christina.
“I loved this movie, and as soon as I heard Theatreworks was doing it, I said, ‘I would love to have that part,’” Favero said. “She’s a strong woman, and she is on the right side of morality.”
Shane Stoyer, 55, plays Monsignor Ryan.
“I’ve only been in one other play here at Theatreworks, and in that I played an Anglican priest. Now I’m playing a Catholic priest,” Stoyer said. “It was written in 1967, but the themes are current, and audiences will see how these issues still resonate today.”
Tickets are available at www.twcp.net or at the door. Performances run through Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026.
