The Hunt

Synopsis

Please note that we have omitted the original title’s offensive term but those searching through archival materials will encounter the uncensored title in historical documents

The Hunt, is a provocative 20-minute play that debuted in the 1960s. This work sharply critiques literary critics, portraying them as a monstrous entity hunting a Black writer. The critics’ weapon of choice is a handful of reviews, rather than a physical club. In a bold and symbolic act, the writer escapes by painting his face white, a concept later echoed by Wole Soyinka in his play The Invention.

The play garnered a mixed reception: while the critics strongly disapproved, the audience was moved to shout “bravo” and “author,” appreciating its bold statement and innovative approach. The Hunt served as a moment of triumph for writers who had been bruised by harsh critical reviews, reflecting Johnstone’s role as the “unpaid conscience of the Royal Court.”