A Truly Heated Discussion
What solutions do historical Black American heroes offer for the plight of today’s besieged Black communities?
Several nights a week, African Yoruba gods call together true icons of American Black history to perform “Heated Discussion—Revisited,” written by Levy Lee Simon and directed by Ben Gillory, at downtown L.A.’s Robey Theatre.
In these times of persistent police shootings, systematic racism, a 400-year history of anti-Black bias, and the country’s preeminent white supremacy, little surprise that the dozen historical figures express deep emotional disagreements about how today’s Black American communities should react to the outrages unfolding around them.
Right, they most definitely get in each other’s faces.
Imagine Malcolm X and Martin Luther King bumping chests on the efficacy of turning the other cheek. Or James Baldwin, Lorraine Hansberry, and Zora Neale Hurston reflecting on socialism and the recent history of sexual politics. And Richard Pryor and Tupac Shakur interjecting prickly humor that doesn’t hide the burning rage within.
Riveting portrayals all.
At Saturday’s performance, we were especially taken with Julio Hanson’s portrayal—dare we say recreation—of James Baldwin. The posture, the gestures, the voice inflections—all letter perfect. We are delighted that this actor, singer, dancer, and writer sat down with us this morning to tell us how he captured not just Baldwin’s appearance and mannerism but his very essence.
Julio HansonThe full panoply of icons includes Malcolm X, Zora Neale Hurston, Lorraine Hansberry, Martin Luther King, Maya Angelou, Tupac Shakur, Ida B. Wells, Francis Cress Welsing, James Baldwin, Bob Marley, Nina Simone, and Richard Pryor—along with three Yoruba gods and a surprise appearance of another figure at the end.
Earlier works by playwright Levy Lee Simon include “The Magnificent Dunbar Hotel” and “For the Love of Freedom: The Haitian Trilogy.”
Robey Theatre Company was founded in 1994 by Ben Guillory—who directed this performance—and Danny Glover to provide a supportive environment for BIPOC artists. Robey also offers developmental theatrical workshops and labs and includes a scene workshop for new actors and a playwrights labe.
Remaining performances this Thursday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m., June 15 and 17. Tickets here.
