In this episode of the Broad Street Review Podcast, host Darnelle Radford welcomes playwright Phaedra Michelle Scott to discuss her upcoming world premiere production, Plantation Black, presented by Interact Theatre Company. The conversation delves into Phaedra's background, her motivations for writing the play, and the unique structure that allows for multiple beginnings and endings. They explore the rehearsal process, the dynamics of the cast, and the importance of audience engagement. Phaedra emphasizes the significance of storytelling in understanding identity and legacy, while also addressing the challenges faced by Black Americans in connecting with their history. The episode concludes with details about the production and Phaedra's excitement for sharing her work with audiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:57 Phaedra's Background and Journey to Playwriting

02:37 Exploring Identity and Family History

05:36 The Importance of Storytelling in Understanding History

08:29 Overview of 'Plantation Black' and Its Inspiration

11:16 The Unique Structure of 'Plantation Black'

13:44 The Rehearsal Process and Collaboration with the Cast

16:26 Engagement and Audience Experience in Theater

19:17 Themes of Safety and Representation in Storytelling

21:26 The Power of Storytelling and Audience Engagement

26:32 Exploring Unique Storytelling Techniques

27:42 Art as a Reflection of Society

28:53 Connecting with Family and Ancestry

33:54 The Importance of Momentum in Theatre

Two centuries after a murky agreement binds a Civil War era plantation family to the enslaved people working the land, the white and Black Prioleau descendants must finally determine who is the rightful heir.

A cast of six actors play both the Civil War and present-day characters, and each night the play begins at a different point in the timeline when a cast member spins a drum bearing the names of all the scenes in the play.

PLANTATION BLACK’s innovative structure evokes the way history repeats itself, and the (sometimes) random ways we learn about our national and personal history.

PLANTATION BLACK has six potential starting points. About 20 minutes before each performance, we will pull a ball from the raffle drum to see where we'll start. If you want to return for the chance to see the play start in a different place (no guarantees!), you can purchase a $12 return ticket at [email protected] or call 215-568-8079.