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1960

Six in the Rain

Written by Derek Walcott

Play Details

Context

Artistic Director 
George Devine

Co-Production With
New Way Theatre Company

Part Of
Sunday Night Productions Without Décor

Dates Performed

Sunday 10th July 1960
Main House (Downstairs)

Play Details

Synopsis

The Caribbean, when slavery is still legal 

A narrator introduces us to the legend surrounding Chantal, a woodcutter with a notorious reputation, who is said to have killed the plantation owner Regis. However, the narrator advises us not to believe everything we hear. As the story unfolds, we witness the truth of that fateful night in the forest when six characters find shelter from the rain in a hut.

Inside, startling confessions are made, revealing the secrets that bind them together. Prepare to be captivated as the mysteries unravel amidst the backdrop of the dark and intriguing forest setting.

 

Director(s)

Lloyd Reckord

Content Warning

Violence

References to slavery

Cast & Creative

Cast

Leo Carrera

Cast

Lionel Ngakane

Cast

Barbara Assoon

Cast

Lloyd Reckord

Designer

Colin Garland

What readers said

What’s it like reading this play now? How has it aged? What does it speak to etc?

While the style and language are a bit dated the core themes and ideas still feel relevant today e.g. racial profiling, the criminalization of Black men, and false accusations. Chantal’s character is reminiscent of George Floyd, a man with a criminal past and reputation who one day committed a minor offense and ended up paying with his life. It speaks to systemic racism and how justice becomes separate from truth.

What does it tell you about the past and the present? 

Regrettably, in many aspects, the situation for Black men in interactions with the criminal justice system remains largely unchanged.

What films or music does it make you think of?

The Negotiator with Samuel L. Jackson

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