READ REVIVE RECLAIM
In June of 2014, New Brooklyn Theatre launched a monthly series of readings of historic, but seldom seen, plays by African American playwrights. The series began with the oldest surviving play written by an African-American playwright, and moved forward chronologically, from the Antebellum period through the Harlem Renaissance.
Revisiting these lost treasures provoked a much-needed conversation about the construction of the canon of American theatre. How might our theatrical practices and assumptions be transformed by engaging these forgotten chapters of our collective past?
After hearing the plays performed and listening to audiences, Rachel was chosen as the play that would receive a full production in our third season.
All of the readings were performed in Bed-Stuy’s Akwaaba Mansion.
Revisiting these lost treasures provoked a much-needed conversation about the construction of the canon of American theatre. How might our theatrical practices and assumptions be transformed by engaging these forgotten chapters of our collective past?
After hearing the plays performed and listening to audiences, Rachel was chosen as the play that would receive a full production in our third season.
All of the readings were performed in Bed-Stuy’s Akwaaba Mansion.
The Escape
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Dessalines
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Rachel
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Cold Keener
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