Posted: 12/3/16 at 10:38am
Has anyone else here been to see this? I went last night and was pretty bowled over by it. The basic plot is fairly simple, but the political aspects of it are really thought-provoking. Essentially, it's a juxtaposition of the Black Panther and Young Lord activist groups from the 60s with the work of younger activists today, like Black Lives Matter. In particular, it examines the failings of the earlier groups and tries to figure out how today's generation can build and learn from the most effective parts of their protest.
I know that sounds sort of dry, but it succeeded for me as both art and political commentary. The entire cast is superb- their energy is absolutely electric and everyone sounds phenomenal musically. In particular, I loved Steven Sapp and Ramona Keller (from Caroline, or Change!) as Omar and Amira. Sapp has a stunning musical number mid-way through Act Two, and Keller has a terrific monologue towards the play's conclusion that she tears into. The direction and choreography, by Liesl Tommy and Millicent Johnnie, are also firing on all cylinders. It's a hybrid of genres- musical, docudrama, spoken word, family drama- but thanks to their work it all feels cohesive.
I know this phrase will get used to death over the next four years, but with the election of Donald Trump, this play feels really urgent and vital right now. It's a pretty in your face call to protest and resistance, and I think that's the kind of art we're going to need for the next four years. TodayTix has a lottery for $20 tickets, and it's shockingly easy to win. If you get a chance, I really recommend it.
