“The Black Monologues” is a show like no other. The actors and actresses’ performances were impeccable, blurring the line between reality and fiction with the depictions of stories told throughout the play. Much like last year, “The Black Monologues” of this fall gives a taste of what it is like to be black, not only at the University but in America as a whole. It depicts both the beautiful and the ugly sides of the culture in relatable, funny and moving ways.
The production does an excellent job handling the serious subjects it addresses, never having too long a gap between its heart-wrenching stories and comedic executions. While the production is very funny, there will almost certainly be times in which members of the audience will feel uncomfortable due to the sensitive nature of race and the experiences illustrated. However, this discomfort is certainly not a reason to avoid seeing the show. If anything, the moments of discomfort aid in the impartation of what it is like to live as a black person in a white community.
It is also important to note that those who are especially fond of the University and Thomas Jefferson might feel offended by the depiction of these entities. Whether an individual finds these depictions agreeable, they are a part of the black experience at the University.
This year’s show, despite having the same title as last year’s production, was a different but equally amazing experience. Like last year’s production, “The Black Monologues” touches on most aspects of the black experience, from self-loathing of skin color to the immense love present in the community. Where this year’s production differs is in the stories utilized to portray these experiences, even adding interpretive dance and other scenes not present in last year’s production.
“The Black Monologues” is about black empowerment and self-love; it is by no means about racial superiority or vilification of white people. The production may have scenes that illustrate wrongs which have been perpetrated by institutions or individuals, but it never feels inauthentic or racist. Overall, the show is a fantastic illustration of black life both at the University and elsewhere. It is worth attending even for those who did not see last year’s show.
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