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.
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.
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?
