Reading, Pennsylvania, USA

Reading is a city in Berks County, Pennsylvania and is known as one of the poorest cities in the United States, a capitalist country with a bi-partisan political system. Tracey, the white woman of German descent, comments in Scene Five that her grandfather built the town. Reading has a heavy German influence, which is relevant in regards to the discussions of race throughout the play. The city’s blue-collar, industrial nature lead to the overall environment of Sweat.

Local Bar

The majority of the action in Sweat takes place in Reading’s local bar. Stan, the bartender, is a staple character that shapes the way the business is run. Nottage describes the establishment at “lived-In and comfortable” (1.2.13). It is the type of bar that has a basic beer selection and still utilizes a juke box. This creates a laid back environment that caters to its blue-collar...