"THE BIG EVENT"
AMERICAN MONKEYS
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What is American Monkeys: The first-ever “reader’s edition” of The Scopes Monkey Trial Transcripts
Abridged by A.J. Schaar, workshopped by The New Fortune Theatre Co.
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This ain't Inherit the Wind. This here's the Truth of History.
"We have done crossed the Rubicon."
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What is The Scopes Monkey Trial: A groundbreaking moment where science, religion, education, and legislation collided in America's consciousness. More news was reported, worldwide, about this trial than any other event in America, including the Civil War.
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The Big Event Re-Creates "The World's Most Famous Court Trial" from 100 Years Ago
July 1925-July 2025
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Join us for this fair-like celebration of history, humor, and humanity—FREE AND OPEN TO ALL.
Suggested donation $20 or "pay the fine to violate the law" $100.
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WHEN: SATURDAY, JULY 26th, 2-7pm
WHERE: At The Westminster Presbyterian Church
3598 Talbot St., Point Loma​
Main Event Timeline
times are approximate.
FEEL FREE TO COME & GO AT ANYTIME!
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2pm STAGED READING IN THE COURTHOUSE
"Introduction": H.L. Mencken describes the town of Dayton and introduces the trial's participants.
The Trial's FOURTH DAY: The only day conventional witnesses are heard before the jury. The state presents all its witnesses, and rests. The defense presents one scientific witness, which is objected to... (court adjourns)
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3pm LIVE MUSIC OUTDOORS
Charles Evans Jr. and Caitie Grady!
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3:30pm STAGED READING IN THE COURTHOUSE
The Trial's FIFTH DAY: Arguments as to whether or not scientific evidence/testimony should be allowed. This is a must-see day of electrifying personal statements from both sides of the trial... (court adjourns)
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4:30pm LIVE MUSIC OUTDOORS
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5pm STAGED READING IN THE COURTHOUSE
"Surrounding the Courthouse": H.L. Mencken describes the atmosphere surrounding the trial.
The Trial's SIXTH DAY: judge rules that scientific testimony shall not be heard. Darrow strongly objects.
The Trial's SEVENTH DAY: The defense calls Bryan to the stand. This is a must-see examination of Bryan by Darrow.
The Trial's EIGHTH DAY: The verdict of is rendered. All parties express gratitude with great courtesy.
CODA: Concluding remarks and words from Charles Darwin.
(court adjourns sine die)
6pm LIVE MUSIC OUTDOORS
LES QUARTETTE
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Enjoy the music, the fair, and the opportunity to discuss these timely issues together!
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7pm The Big Event Ends.
ALL DAY EVENTS (Always Going On)
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Book Sale to Benefit our San Diego Public Libraries! ​
Live Snake Encounters!​
Catapult a Monkey! (catapult an American Sock Monkey into "hell" and win a prize!) ​
Spin the trivia wheel of EVILution!
Enjoy 1920's Era Concessions! ​
Shop Handmade Monkey Merch! ​
Check out displays of satirical cartoons from the original trial! ​
Visit the "author's corner" to see the full transcript and books used in making this world's-first reader's edition! ​
Buy a signed copy of THAT BOOK! The American Monkeys book!​​​​​
MEET THE CAST OF AMERICAN MONKEYS
(Cast Announcement Coming Soon)
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The Court
THE COURT, Judge John T. Raulston
BAILIFF, Mr. Sherriff
The Press
Henry MENCKEN, The Baltimore Sun
Special Reporter from TORONTO
The Prosecution
Tom STEWART, Attorney General of Tennessee
Gordon MCKENZIE
William Jennings BRYAN
The Defense
Arthur Garfield HAYS, of the ACLU
Dudley Field MALONE
Clarence DARROW
The Defendant
John Thomas SCOPES
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The DIRECTOR of AMERICAN MONKEYS
RICHARD BAIRD
This programme is produced by The New Fortune Theatre Co.
in proud partnership with
The Friends of the San Diego Public Library
The San Diego Library Foundation
The Westminster Presbyterian Church
Committee of Peace and Justice
FAQs
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Is the venue wheelchair accessible? YES.
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Are kids welcome? YES. Kids are encouraged to come witness this piece of history. Fun fact: Mr. Scopes' students were 14 years old; two of these students testified during the trial. Many smaller children ran around the courthouse and the courtyard outside, and according to H.L. Mencken, could be overheard supporting the defense.
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Is parking easy? YES. There is free parking in lots attached to the church, and ample free street parking nearby.
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Is the event free? YES. You can enjoy the American Monkeys "Big Event" completely free! All are welcome!
While the event is free to join, donations are welcome.
Suggested donation is $20 per person, or "pay the fine to violate the law" $100.
This event is a unique opportunity to support community storytelling, civic dialogue, and lifelong learning—all in one unforgettable afternoon!​
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What if I want to make a more substantial donation? Thank you! Talk with any staff member at the event, or reach out to amanda@newfortunetheatre.com to coordinate your tax-deductible gift.
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Should I make a reservation? NO. Just come. If we run out of seats inside "the courthouse," we will pipe the sound outside into "the courtyard." (Many people in 1925 experienced the trial this way. There were so many people present that the judge feared that the courthouse would collapse!) You will always be able to enjoy every part of this Big Event whether from inside or outside.
If you need special seat accommodations, please let a staff-member know when you arrive. We're here to help.​
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It's OK to come by ANYTIME? YES. Just like attending a real trial, you are welcome to come and go at any time during the event (2-7pm).
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I still have questions! We've got you. Please email info@newfortunetheatre.com. We will respond within 24 hours.