(Carson, Ca.) California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) will host a livestream production of “A Surge of Power,” an original student-written theatre production that gives voice to the rising plea for social equity. The show will run March 11, 12, 13, and 16 at 7 p.m.
“A Surge of Power” is one result of the pledge the Department of Theatre and Dance made last summer in support of the Black Lives Matter movement to tell stories that denounce racism and bigotry, and foster empathy for all people. It was developed by Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts Shaunté Caraballo, who directs the production, and CSUDH students Kendall Bryant, Samantha Cope, Trish McCall, and Alex Serrano, who portray a group of strangers who meet while at a Black Lives Matter protest.
“A Surge of Power,” A Black Lives Matter-Devised Theatre Production: March 11, 12, 13 and 16 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 per night. To reserve a ticket visit https://www.csudh.edu/theatre-arts/buy-tickets/. For information, call CSUDH Performing Arts at (310) 243-3589, or email at PerformingArts@csudh.edu.
Set on a modern urban boulevard, the characters share with each other who they are, where they are from, what brought them there, and their hopes for the future, resulting in a passionate and expressive dialogue about race and equity in America. The show also reveals to the audience the deep impact that oppression has on its victims, with one character drawing from the prose of poet Tucker Bryant: “There’s nothing more autobiographical than a scar.”
In describing “A Surge of Power,” Caraballo said, “The play brings to light the horrors of our past, but challenges us to stand up for the battles against racism that appear everywhere around us. This unique performance reflects our commitment to celebrating the contributions of marginalized people groups, and to help the community at large learn more about the challenges facing members in our neighborhoods, and how to do their part to help bring justice.”
“We know that all lives cannot matter until Black Lives Matter,” Caraballo added.
