True to its mission – to present “socially conscious and thought-provoking work” that engages audiences “in active dialogue” – Theater Alliance has launched a series of eight short plays by eight emerging black playwrights writing in response to requests from the Black Lives Movement to matter. With the stated objective of Provoking action and promoting social justice, each of the plays relates thematically to “legislative changes that will address the systemic oppression of Black people in America.”
collectively titled Develop strategies, organize, mobilize: an event in eight, the series launched on October 27, 2020, with Roney Jones’ “The Obedient Mirage” loosely touching on the topic of defunding the police. Directed by Raymond O. Caldwell, “The Obedient Mirage” is a gripping, terrifically acted, and entirely cinematic 15-minute short set in the home of a black policeman and his family. From outside, we hear tense chants of “Black Lives Matter!” – demonstrators protesting the murder of a young black man by a partner of the man whose anguish we see before us. The austere and emotionally raw exchange between him and his wife and daughter resonates powerfully with themes of police responsibility and responsibility for the truth. With “The Obedient Mirage”, the troupe of the Theater Alliance A demonstration in eight got off to a hard-hitting start.
Plays last approximately 15 minutes and tickets are available by clicking here. For now, each of the pieces can only be viewed on a specific date and time. (Future streaming options will be announced.) After each premiere, Caldwell will speak with the playwright of the evening live on the company’s TV channel. Facebook page.
The themes and pieces remaining in the series are:
October 28 — REPAIRS
“Reap the Reparations” by Alric Davis
It’s your favorite game show, “The Blackest of the Day!” Tune in to this game show parody to see who our good friend Uncle Sam chooses to hand out reparations to. But be careful, a wrong answer will lead to the revocation of your black card!
October 29 — REDUCTION OF PRISON POPULATIONS
“What’s Happening Over There” by Savina Barini
Maria is a candidate for district attorney as a prison abolitionist, even despite her traumatic past with Albert. As the two grapple with their shared history, they unveil compelling notions about prison reform.
October 30 — DECRIMINALIZATION OF SEX WORK
“Tiffany’s” by Emmanuel Key
Another late night at Tiffany’s, a magical dinner for the underworld of American society. Seeking to hide, Neith stumbles into the restaurant and finds herself on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
October 31 — END OF CASH BOX
“Either You Have It Or You Don’t” by Kayla Parker
It’s the 4th of July weekend, and five different people from five different walks of life are each trying to get bail. Everyone gets a phone call. Everyone has a story. Everyone has a choice. Or do they?
November 1 — STOP AND FRISK BAN
“It’s a new age, mom!” by Tehya Merritt
Every afternoon Mammy enjoys listening to her favorite show, but today something is different. The characters aren’t “shucking and jiving” like they normally do! Striking satire, this short piece examines the politics of stop and frisk.
November 2 — CHARGES AGAINST PROTESTERS DROP
“Death of the Wonderkid” by Naima Randolph
Wonderkid, a child superhero has grown up in the public eye. He is super fast and a shining example for his community. As an adult, has the world changed? Is there room for a black superhero in a world that views protesters as villains?
November 3 — ADDRESSING SCHOOL TO PRISON PIPELINES
“Criminalize Me” by Carmin Wong
How do young people navigate a system that does not validate their humanity? Wisdom has a secret that she hid from her best friend Rah. This secret could shake the foundations of their friendship, their school and their community. Who can she tell?
