| I have had conversations with people of color, students, but I chose not to bring them up here BECAUSE they’re anecdotal. However, that does not diminish your valid points. And I read both reviews. I am a cis gendered, white male…so I don’t feel comfortable arguing against any of these points. But I do think the conversation about who is allowed to tell which stories is a valid and interesting one. As a gay, male, director, should I only be allowed to direct plays about gay men? I don’t think so. But I also recognize that sexuality and race are different things. It’s all complicated. I appreciate what the first reviewer said in terms of the production being thrilling, and telling an important story, but still feeling like something was missing because of the POV of the play and its creators. It just becomes incredibly complicated when it’s such an epic story that incorporates aspects of race, and gender roles, and historical context. There is no one person who can properly address every issue the play touches on from a personal perspective. |
