Black theatre, within the rich tapestry of performing arts, serves as a poignant testament to the depth of culture, history, and creativity within the black community. From the groundbreaking narratives of August Wilson to the contemporary innovations of playwrights like Tarell Alvin McCraney, black theatre resonates with audiences and amplifies essential stories. Yet, behind each captivating stage production lies an often-overlooked process: the crucial readings and rehearsals that refine and shape the final performance.
Before a play graces the spotlight, it embarks on a developmental journey critical for black theatre’s authenticity and impact. Readings, workshops, and rehearsals provide a platform for playwrights, directors, and actors to delve into themes, characters, and dialogue with depth and nuance. Particularly for black theatre, these early stages hold immense significance, allowing artists to explore complex issues of identity, race, and social justice authentically.
The necessity for black theatre readings arises from a commitment to ensuring accurate and respectful representation of black, brown, and LGBTQ communities. Through collaborative table reads and workshops, artists refine scripts, tackle challenging themes, and celebrate the diverse perspectives within the black diaspora. These readings serve as incubators for creativity and dialogue, empowering artists to elevate their craft and contribute meaningfully to the artistic landscape.
Moreover, black theatre readings offer a vital platform for emerging playwrights and performers to showcase their talents and amplify their voices. In an industry where opportunities for minority artists can be scarce, these readings provide essential connections with mentors, collaborators, and audiences. By championing diversity and inclusivity throughout the creative process, black theatre readings enrich the artistic community and foster greater representation and equity.
In addition to honoring the significance of readings, it’s essential to celebrate the contributions of black, brown, and LGBTQ writers and performers in theatre. Often marginalized or overlooked, these trailblazing artists have shaped and enriched black theatre with their extraordinary talents. From luminaries like Lorraine Hansberry to Sidney Poitier, their voices deserve recognition and celebration.
Our commitment to black theatre extends beyond homage to classic works; it encompasses nurturing new talent and amplifying underrepresented voices. By providing opportunities for Philadelphia theatre makers to direct and narrate readings of Broadway classics, we broaden the scope of inclusivity and creativity within the industry. These readings not only provide a platform for aspiring actors but also inspire audiences to witness the next generation of theatre talent.
In conclusion, black theatre readings are not merely a precursor to the final performance; they are an integral part of the creative journey, fostering collaboration, dialogue, and discovery. By embracing readings and honoring diverse talent, we ensure the continued vibrancy and relevance of black theatre in the performing arts landscape. Let us raise our voices, celebrate achievements, and embrace the transformative power of black theatre as we eagerly anticipate the next chapter of its evolution.
The creative process is an intensely personal and intricate journey, where every artist brings their distinct perspective and life experiences to their craft. For Black creatives, this journey is laced with layers of complexity, rooted in a rich cultural heritage, a history of resilience, and the ongoing struggle for equity. In this blog, I want to share the deeply personal process of writing as a Black creative, shedding light on the challenges, inspirations, and the powerful voices that arise from this unique vantage point.
1. Drawing Inspiration from My Cultural Heritage
I often draw inspiration from my rich cultural heritage, which encompasses a diverse range of experiences, from African traditions and history to the African diaspora. These cultural roots infuse my work with a deep sense of identity and pride. Authors like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Ta-Nehisi Coates have beautifully shown how their African and African-American backgrounds influence their storytelling, and I resonate with this on a personal level.
2. Navigating Complex Themes
As a Black creative, writing involves confronting complex themes like identity, racism, social injustice, and historical trauma. These themes are central to my creative process, and I use my work as a platform to shed light on these issues. Books like “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates and “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas deeply impact me, as they delve into racial injustice and offer powerful perspectives that resonate with my own experiences.
3. Challenging Stereotypes
I often find myself in the position of challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about the Black community. My writing serves as a tool to dismantle harmful narratives and provide more accurate portrayals of Black individuals. Maya Angelou’s autobiographical series, starting with “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” does this beautifully, portraying the complexities of life and identity in a way that I can personally relate to.
4. Advocating for Diversity in Publishing
The publishing industry has had a long history of lacking diversity, both in terms of authors and the stories it represents. As a Black creative, I am actively working to change this by advocating for more inclusivity and opportunities for underrepresented voices. Initiatives like #PublishingPaidMe have exposed disparities in book advances, and I am committed to being part of the solution in making the industry more equitable.
5. Embracing Resilience and Perseverance
My journey as a Black creative often comes with unique challenges, including combating stereotypes and confronting systemic biases. However, my stories are also a testament to resilience and perseverance. Authors like Toni Morrison, Langston Hughes, and Zora Neale Hurston faced adversity head-on, creating timeless works that continue to inspire me in my own writing journey.
Conclusion
Writing as a Black creative is a deeply personal and multifaceted journey filled with inspiration, challenges, and the opportunity to reshape narratives. By drawing from my cultural heritage, addressing complex themes, and advocating for diversity, I am crafting a literary landscape that celebrates the richness of my experiences and the power of my voice. My stories are not just about the Black experience but are universally resonant, reminding us of the strength and creativity that emerges from embracing one’s identity and fighting for a more inclusive world.
In addition, my journey often involves collaboration, working with co-creators who share the same goals and mission. The evolution of our writing over the years is a testament to the ever-changing landscape of life and art, reflecting the shifting dynamics of the world and our own personal growth.
In the end, the journey of writing as a Black creative is not only about creating stories but also about making a difference, pushing boundaries, and leaving a lasting impact on literature and society. It’s a journey that embodies the spirit of personal resilience, unity, and the power of words to inspire change.
In the vibrant landscape of American theater, there exists a captivating duality – African-American theater and Black theater. These two entities share a common thread of representing the Black experience, yet they differ in subtle but meaningful ways. Both these theaters face unique challenges within an industry that has often marginalized them, making it crucial to examine how they coexist while persevering in a narrative that has often overlooked their voices.
Defining African-American Theater and Black Theater
African-American theater, in its essence, refers to the theater that centers on the experiences, stories, and culture of African-Americans. It has roots in the struggle for civil rights and social justice, with historical figures like Lorraine Hansberry and August Wilson making significant contributions. African-American theater often tackles issues of racial identity, discrimination, and the fight for equality.
On the other hand, Black theater takes a more encompassing approach. It doesn’t limit itself to African-Americans but extends its reach to encompass the entire African diaspora. Black theater explores the shared experiences of Black people worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries. This broader perspective allows Black theater to connect with an even wider audience and tackle a variety of global issues related to Black culture.
Coexistence in the Theater World
The theater world, often criticized for its lack of diversity and opportunities for Black artists, has begun to recognize the importance of both African-American and Black theater. These distinct forms of expression coexist by occupying different niches within the industry. African-American theater remains a vital tool for addressing the specific struggles faced by African-Americans in the United States. In contrast, Black theater, with its global focus, provides a platform to celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of the Black experience worldwide.
Challenges and Triumphs
Both African-American theater and Black theater face unique challenges. These challenges, however, have not deterred their perseverance.
Representation: The fight for representation in theater is ongoing. Both African-American and Black theater have struggled to secure their rightful place on the stage, but they persist in sharing stories that need to be told.
Funding and Resources: Access to funding and resources remains a challenge. Despite this, dedicated artists have found innovative ways to produce remarkable work, such as crowdfunding and community support.
Recognition: Achieving recognition for their contributions can be an uphill battle. However, accolades and awards for actors, directors, and playwrights from these theaters continue to grow, providing well-deserved recognition for their talent and dedication.
The Survival of the Black Experience in American Theater
The Black experience is both resilient and transformative. It continues to evolve, adapt, and persevere in the narrative of American theater. African-American and Black theaters play a pivotal role in this narrative, ensuring that the stories of Black people are not just heard but celebrated. Their existence challenges the industry to become more inclusive and open to diverse narratives.
In conclusion, the difference between African-American theater and Black theater is rooted in scope and perspective. They coexist as vital contributors to American theater, making space for underrepresented voices and celebrating the rich tapestry of Black experiences. Together, they defy the industry’s tendency to look from the outside in and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse theater landscape in America. The Black experience is not just surviving but thriving in the ever-evolving narrative of American theater.
Title: Navigating the Duality: African-American Theater vs. Black Theater
In the vibrant landscape of American theater, there exists a captivating duality – African-American theater and Black theater. These two entities share a common thread of representing the Black experience, yet they differ in subtle but meaningful ways. Both these theaters face unique challenges within an industry that has often marginalized them, making it crucial to examine how they coexist while persevering in a narrative that has often overlooked their voices.
Defining African-American Theater and Black Theater
African-American theater, in its essence, refers to the theater that centers on the experiences, stories, and culture of African-Americans. It has roots in the struggle for civil rights and social justice, with historical figures like Lorraine Hansberry and August Wilson making significant contributions. African-American theater often tackles issues of racial identity, discrimination, and the fight for equality.
On the other hand, Black theater takes a more encompassing approach. It doesn’t limit itself to African-Americans but extends its reach to encompass the entire African diaspora. Black theater explores the shared experiences of Black people worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries. This broader perspective allows Black theater to connect with an even wider audience and tackle a variety of global issues related to Black culture.
Coexistence in the Theater World
The theater world, often criticized for its lack of diversity and opportunities for Black artists, has begun to recognize the importance of both African-American and Black theater. These distinct forms of expression coexist by occupying different niches within the industry. African-American theater remains a vital tool for addressing the specific struggles faced by African-Americans in the United States. In contrast, Black theater, with its global focus, provides a platform to celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of the Black experience worldwide.
Challenges and Triumphs
Both African-American theater and Black theater face unique challenges. These challenges, however, have not deterred their perseverance.
Representation: The fight for representation in theater is ongoing. Both African-American and Black theater have struggled to secure their rightful place on the stage, but they persist in sharing stories that need to be told.
Funding and Resources: Access to funding and resources remains a challenge. Despite this, dedicated artists have found innovative ways to produce remarkable work, such as crowdfunding and community support.
Recognition: Achieving recognition for their contributions can be an uphill battle. However, accolades and awards for actors, directors, and playwrights from these theaters continue to grow, providing well-deserved recognition for their talent and dedication.
The Survival of the Black Experience in American Theater
The Black experience is both resilient and transformative. It continues to evolve, adapt, and persevere in the narrative of American theater. African-American and Black theaters play a pivotal role in this narrative, ensuring that the stories of Black people are not just heard but celebrated. Their existence challenges the industry to become more inclusive and open to diverse narratives.
In conclusion, the difference between African-American theater and Black theater is rooted in scope and perspective. They coexist as vital contributors to American theater, making space for underrepresented voices and celebrating the rich tapestry of Black experiences. Together, they defy the industry’s tendency to look from the outside in and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse theater landscape in America. The Black experience is not just surviving but thriving in the ever-evolving narrative of American theater.
I must admit that i am in fear of whats to come as those whom i am us to working with have been busy with there own lives and projects. Nevertheless this i am seizing this moment to become the artist i was meant to be and allow others to help me where my fears would probably make me take a back seat and stop this project all together. Happiness is finding the common ground among others and reaching outward and in to understand that the balance to all of this is understanding that you never were alone within a journey that has a true positive focus…
That’s what makes acting so attractive. You get to break all your own rules.”Gerardine Clark”
The beauty of acting is allowing yourself to let go and take on roles that you never thought you would do. In many ways this is your inner voice ready to dive into the unexpected and see if things are possible. In the end it is here when one finds them self and realize that it was always the fear of exploring that held them back that will never do so again.
The best acting is instinctive. It’s not intellectual, it’s not mechanical, it’s instinctive. ~ Craig MacDonald
He walked ín took his place with an introduction and waited for time. He stood with paper in hand and began speaking words that he had never seen before and made others see him as believable. His became the husband and seeing the picture of his wife made it clear that he wasn’t just being thrown in a moment but a believability of a situation that could be…
If there is one thing that we all know from experience,fitting in isn’t always that easy. In theater being able to fit in means more as it deals with having the ability to show fellow cast mates that you have what it takes to nail a line a character and all that within the first time they see you in rehearsal. The best part of this is when you take your last breath after the last line after the last action and you hear nothing but claps it means you have done what you came to do and you have now been initiated into the fold.
As we begin the new journey we took a totally different approach taking the time to show newbies a run through of what many did. It was helpful as it gave many of the cast members a chance to see how much they retained also it was worth seeing to know what needs to happen in the coming weeks as we freshin up.
We start our journey again with both vets and newbies in this years cast of underground episodes and you’ll be meeting and seeing them all in postings In time. This time around we start a little early with rehearsals and find out how well many have retained the pieces since its been almost a year since last performed. Like a bike the expectations are always to be able to get on and begin to peddle away but we all had to remember the best part is in the refreshing of the lines and positions we put in play from last time around. It was fun reintroducing everyone as well as introducing new members to the ensemble and there are still more members to come. Seeing everyone was a refreshing moment for me as it brought me closer to the understanding as to what my goal is in the accomplishment of the play this time around and that is to truly establish a facility in Philadelphia where this journey can take on its on course for the cast that many actors in philly don’t get a chance to say and that is in — at — ..
The beauty of life is often we partake our dreams and they lead us to bigger pastures. Last week I was in the mist of the meeting of the minds with the talented Donna Griggs and Keith Walker as we discussed business in Philadelphia theater. As it can be said about this many artist here have shown that they are far more then what people see as poets,singers,comedians, and hip hop artist having branched into theater both film and live allowing people to see there is so much more that each has to offer. What takes me even more is how philly seems to be evolving into the new Hollywood and Broadway in its own right. Seeing talents I know doing what they do has been a treat and being part of this mix makes me even feel the future is open for us all.
Run Boy Run Production 