Awakening a Deeper Understanding of Tolerance

Secrets of a Black Boy, a theatrical production by Darren Anthony provides some distinct insights into the lives of five African-Canadians. Through a composition of both comedic and sombre soliloquies, an appreciation develops for the struggles and sometimes forgotten voices of communities lost.



SECRETS OF A BLACK BOY
By Darren Anthony
September 23 – October 3, 2009
The Music Hall
147 Danforth Ave., Toronto, ON
Tickets $20.00 - $68.50
416-778-8163
www.secretsofablackboy.com

Frustrated by the displacement of families in Toronto's Regent Park, Jakes (Eli Goree ), Sean (Somari Downer), Sheldon (Al St.Louis), Biscuit (Samson Brown) and Jerome (Darren Anthony) raise their voices in Secrets of A Black Boy. The production plays The Music Hall until October 3.


The play begins with a powerful opening scene enriched with symbolic imagery that captures both the political and cultural landscapes of 300 plus years of black history. The visual allure of a black man portrayed through time becomes even more impressive when partnered with deliberately chosen and expressive music. What’s more, DJ O-Nonymous (DJ) captivates audiences with his selection of remixes from African tribal beats to classic Hip Hop tunes.

To no surprise the play reveals itself through character monologues leaving little doubt as to what secrets are left to be told. Darren Anthony (Jerome), Samson Brown (Biscuit), Shomari Downer (Sean), Eli Goree (Jakes), and Al St.Louis (Sheldon) all provide passionate performances full of heart and soul. Each character perception is thought provoking to the point of awakening a deeper understanding of tolerance.

Secrets of a black boy are exposed with an antithesis approach. Some examples of this are expressions on wayward fathers to dedicated dads or gangs and violence to good friends and cops. The story touches on all subjects including relationships and sex to poverty and dreams, always ensuring to share key vantage points of the characters and their concerns.

As Trey Anthony Productions are becoming known for their audience interaction, it should be noted that, while this play will appeal to a significant range of individuals, the content and material is esoteric by nature. Many of the experiences shared and terms referenced offer a great deal of insight, however, revelations may not be for everyone.



Review by Denise Hinds



CAST
Darren Anthony
Samson Brown
Shomari Downer
Eli Goree
Al St.Louis
DJ O-Nonymous

DIRECTOR
Kimahli Powell

STYLISTS
Sean Brown
Courtney Eastman

SET & LIGHTING
Glenn Davidson

STAGE MANAGER
Shuana Japp


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