Black Theatre Workshop Announces New Season
Black Theatre Workshop
Black Theatre workshop of Montreal has just announced its upcoming offerings for the winter 2017 season. Pieces reflect an interest in the black community world wide, taking in stories about the US, South Africa, Haiti, and Canada.
Things begin with the Montreal Premiere of The Mountaintop a fictional account of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last night written by Katori Hall and directed by ahdri zhina mandiela, a co production with Neptune Theatre. Taking inspiration from Greek tragedy, a mysterious stranger visits Dr. King with ill tidings after the delivery of his “I have been to the mountaintop” speech, forcing him to consider his role in the American Civil Rights Movement. Two fantastic local actors star in the piece, with Tristan D. Lalla takes the role of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Letitia Brookes as Camae. (Oct 14-29 at Segal Centre. Tickets HERE).
The next Montreal premiere comes from South Africa — Master Harold and the Boys written by Athol Fugard and directed by Philip Akin. The play was banned in South Africa for its frank look at injustice and inequality. The year is 1950, and Harold is a well-to-do young man who has a warm relationship with two servants who work for his family. When Harold’s alcoholic father returns, the atmosphere changes as personal becomes political. (Jan 21-Feb 11, at The Segal Centre. Tickets HERE)
Next up is presciently political Black Boys written by Stephen Jackman-Torkoff, Tawiah Ben M’carthy and Thomas Olajide, directed by Jonathan Seinen. This ensemble show looks at gender, sexuality, and race through the eyes of three black men who want to understand themselves and their encounters with the world better. (Espace Libre from February 13 to 17. Tickets HERE)
Fans of one person storytelling-style shows will have to catch Rendez-Vous with Home written and performed by Djennie Laguerre, directed by Dayane Ntibarikure during its week run of public performances. In it, Josephine and her sister Suzette, must return to Haiti to bury their father. Josephine is nervous, but Suzette sees this as a vacation. (March 6-11, locations tbd.)
Keep an eye HERE to find out more about Black Theatre Workshop’s offerings, including mentorships and its annual Vision Gala.
