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Dreamscape of a Black Woman's Unspoken Hopes
15 Feb
Summary
- A 19-year-old Black woman's life and dreams are explored posthumously.
- The production uses beatboxing, spoken word, hip-hop, and dance.
- Her story is told through the lens of her autopsy report's details.
An innovative theatre production, inspired by the 1998 police shooting of Tyisha Miller, brings the story of a young Black woman, Myeisha Mills, to life. The play, "Dreamscape," uses a unique blend of beatboxing, spoken word, hip-hop, and dance to explore Myeisha's aspirations and memories.
Jada Evelyn Ramsey portrays Myeisha, a character who, though deceased, narrates her life and potential from a dreamlike state. The performance artfully uses Myeisha's autopsy report to recount vivid moments from her life, connecting bullet entry points to memories of her hair, intimate experiences, and personal style.
Josiah Alpher complements Ramsey's performance by beatboxing, rapping, and voicing characters, including the coroner and the dehumanizing language of the autopsy. Despite the tragic circumstances of her death, the production paradoxically conveys a palpable sense of joy and zest for life, leaving audiences with profound anger and sadness over the injustice.
The show's creative team includes American writer-director Rickerby Hinds, with choreography by Carrie Mykuls. This production offers a dazzling yet disturbing experience, highlighting the power of non-naturalistic storytelling to confront difficult themes.
