"The River Crosses River II" - Plawrights of Color Representing...

On a rainy evening, I headed to the far West Side of the city to see Ensemble Studio Theatre’s The River Crosses River II, an eclectic mix of 10 minutes plays. Several were interesting including one about an encounter between two Bengalis (what a treat since I rarely see South Asians on the New York City stage) and another about reparations.

However, the standout for me during the evening was Waking Up by Cori Thomas. Waking Up weaves the story of dealing with breast cancer from the perspective of a well off American woman and an African woman. In the brief 10 minutes we learn how their stories are different (e.g., access to health care) and how they are the same (e.g., survival). It was extremely well done and I now have to keep an eye out for Ms. Thomas.

The River Crosses River II showcases plays by female playwrights of color, who are underrepresented in the theater world. But I am hopeful that since we are seeing serious representation by playwrights of color on the New York City stage this season, hopefully this is all changing...

Check out...

• Katori Hall - The Mountaintop
• Suzi-Lori Parks - The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess (re-imagined)
• Lydia Diamond - Stick Fly
• Kirstin Greenidge - Milk Like Sugar