Early outrage over AIDS crisis reaches DC stage

The Associated Press, Friday, June 15, 2012, 2:45am (PDT)

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The nation's capital is getting its first look at a story recalling the early days of the AIDS crisis when foot-dragging politicians and bureaucrats denied an unfolding epidemic that would kill millions.

While Washington has a role in the story, Larry Kramer's 1985 play "The Normal Heart" is being staged here for the first time. The production coincides with a large international AIDS conference that's returning to the U.S.

Arena Stage is producing the show, which won the 2011 Tony Award for best revival.

Kramer says Washington is the most important city for his play, as the power center for politics and health policy. He hopes President Barack Obama comes to see it to better understand the AIDS crisis.

The play runs through July 29, then moves to San Francisco.