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ARTS
Black Theatre Troupe in Phoenix opens season with ‘The Trial’
Karani Marcia Leslie-penned production challenges deeply ingrained stereotypes
(Poster provided by Black Theatre Troupe)
Posted
IF YOU GO
What: “The Trial of One Short-Sighted Black Woman vs. Mammy Louise and Safreeta Mae”
When: Sept. 6-22
Where: Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St., Phoenix
Tickets: $50
More Information: blacktheatrertroupe.org
Special to the Independent Newsmedia
Black Theatre Troupe will open its new season with the dark comedy “The Trial of One Short-Sighted Black Woman vs. Mammy Louise and Safreeta Mae.”
Written by Karani Marcia Leslie and directed by Black Theatre Troupe's Executive Director David Hemphill, “The Trial” runs Friday, Sept 6 through Sunday, Sept. 22 at the Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St., in Phoenix.
“The Trial” revolves around the character Victoria Dryer, a successful Black advertising executive who is frustrated with the persistent stereotypes of Black women in media and popular culture. She decides to put these stereotypes — personified as Mammy Louise and Safreeta Mae — on trial.
Mammy Louise represents the "mammy" stereotype, a loyal and subservient Black woman, while Safreeta Mae embodies the "jezebel" stereotype, an oversexualized image of Black women.
The trial becomes a metaphorical exploration of how these stereotypes have misshaped perceptions of Black women, both within the Black community and in broader society. Through this courtroom drama, the play critiques the damaging effects of these limited and often negative portrayals and questions their origins, persistence, and impact on the lives of real Black women.
"The Trial challenges the audience to confront deeply ingrained stereotypes and the historical portrayal of Black women," Hemphill shared in a press release. "Leslie's remarkable script blends satire and humor with biting social commentary, making the audience laugh while simultaneously confronting these uncomfortable truths."
“The Trial” features Jessica Ortiz Sanroman as "Victoria Dryer," Cynnita Agent as "The Prosecution," Lydia Corbin as "The Defense," and LaTraye Meredith as "The Judge." Regina White takes the role of "Safreeta Mae" with Kimberly Coleman portraying "Mammy Louise." Paul Perkins rounds out the cast as Mrs. Reems and the male roles.
Tickets are $50 and are available at blacktheatrertroupe.org.
Black Theatre Troupe was founded by Helen K. Mason in 1970 as a space for underserved artists to share the Black experience.
