“Black and Blue” explores complex issues between African Americans and the police.
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI – Gitana Productions is presenting three free performances of “Black and Blue,” an original play exploring the complex relationship between the African American community and the police. “Black and Blue” is returning to the stage for a third season after its debut in Spring 2015 and performances in Fall 2015.
“Black and Blue” by Lee Patton Chiles is based on a compilation of interviews with police officers and members of the African American community about the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson and the events that followed.
Tickets are free but advance reservations must be made at www.gitana-inc.org, or email Gitana at [email protected] or call 314-721-6556. Donations to support the play and the programs of Gitana Productions are appreciated.
The play received international acclaim from American Theatre (the nation’s premiere general circulation theatre magazine), the Russian News Service, Al Jazeera, the St. Louis American, Nine Network “Living St. Louis,” KDHX and St. Louis Public Radio. In a survey of 1,045 audience members, 94 percent rated the play as excellent and 97 percent said they would recommend it to others.
“‘Black and Blue’ struck a chord because of the way it addresses race relations and issues of equal justice under the law,” said Cecilia Nadal, executive director of Gitana Productions. “This play peels back the presumption of guilt on both sides of the issue and goes on to support the healing process.”
“Black and Blue” is sponsored by the following organizations with partial funding from the Regional Arts Commission and the Missouri Arts Council:
• Harris-Stowe State University
• Webster Groves Christian Church
• Emmanuel Episcopal Church
• Christ Lutheran Church
• Sisters CARE (Christians Advocating Racial Equality)
• The Ethical Society of St. Louis and the American Ethical Union
• Alliance for Interracial Dignity
Tickets are free but advance reservations must be made at www.gitana-inc.org. Performances will be held in May and July at
Harris-Stowe State University
Friday, May 20, 7:30 p.m.
Emerson Performance Center
3101 Laclede, St. Louis 63103
Webster Groves High School
Sunday, May 22, 3 p.m.
100 Selma, Webster Groves 63119
Christ Church Cathedral
Friday, July 15, 7:30 p.m.
1210 Locust, St. Louis 63103
Critic Quotes
“This first generation stage work is a reminder of the raw, firsthand artistic impressions of the contemporary moment, and of the need to cry out for healing while the wounds are still fresh.”
– Robert Neblett, American Theatre
“A thought provoking, well-acted and strongly worded play that stirs discussion to create a fuller, more varied and nuanced understanding of racial conflict, not only in St. Louis but across America.”
– Tina Farmer, Theater Critic, KDHX
“More than just theater. Gitana achieved its mission of creating a safe and vibrant space for multicultural conversation and healing through the arts.”
– Kenya Vaughn, St. Louis American
“Spoken word and rap by actor, singer and songwriter Dyce added a refreshing and unexpected treat.”
– [i am] Uniquely Special blog
Audience Quotes
“The play was balanced and made me look at police officers as people too.”
“You addressed the truth about race and class in St. Louis.”
“The cast and the rap artists were excellent.”
“The playwright made me look at the facts in a critical and deeper manner.”
“Wonderful ensemble!”
ABOUT GITANA PRODUCTIONS
Gitana Productions, Inc. is a not-for-profit arts and education organization dedicated to creating a diverse and dynamic community through cross-cultural awareness using drama, music and dance. Gitana events present a rarely seen diversity of international and local artists exhibiting an array of traditional and innovative artistic expressions. For more information, visit www.gitana-inc.org or call Gitana Productions at (314) 721-6556.
Media Contact
Rachel Brown
[email protected]
(314) 210-4419
