Black Bone
Definition Theatre Company's mission is to celebrate stories created with, inspired by, and intended for people and communities of color. Through its Amplify Series, now in its fifth iteration, Artistic Director Tyrone Phillips's vision of staying inclusive, evolving, and engaged looks to discover the hidden gems of theatrical playwrights within the Chicagoland communities and has found a gem in Tina Fakhrid-Deen. Her play, "Black Bone," captivates you with its rich and poignant narrative regarding the intricacies of blackness and what it means to be Black in a predominantly white world. The play intricately explores the lives of four Black academics who are pushed to their limits by the overwhelming demands placed upon them within their Predominantly White Institution (PWI) institution. Amidst a backdrop of systemic inequality, they struggle as they watch their white colleagues receive preferential treatment and superior benefits while contributing far less. During a meeting aimed at addressing their agenda for equality, tensions peak when they uncover a shocking revelation: one of their own has been secretly passing, infiltrating their group. This betrayal adds a layer of complexity and doubt to their united front, dividing them on what it means to be black, the definition of blackness, and who has the authority to decide.
Directed by Carla Stillwell, in collaboration with Michelle Renee Bester and Production Manager Zavarie Z. Irons, *Black Bone* presents a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the daily challenges faced by the Black community. The production features a black president fiercely advocating for land rights that were long promised to the black community—specifically, the historic 40 acres of reparations. A black reporter broadcasting the unfolding boycotts and the resistance faced by white street outlaws, who adamantly oppose any movements toward reparations, displaying discrimination and the deeply ingrained stereotypes that contribute to the perception of Black individuals as "less than" their white counterparts. Through poignant storytelling and powerful performances by Martasia James, Marlene Slaughter, Matthew Lolar-Johnson, Cynthia F. Carter, and Patrck Newson Jr., the play highlights the frustrations of living as a black person and the negative perspective of those being young, gifted, and black, yet perceived as troubling, problematic, and feared because of their blackness — all while enduring these obstacles with resilience and strength. The reality host portion of the play does provide some satire, and Newson does a great job in the role; however, it is somewhat unnecessary and doesn't add much to the plot. Still, this does not diminish the impact of the powerful message conveyed or the exceptional performances delivered by the cast. The depth of their portrayals and the significance of the themes truly resonated, creating a memorable experience overall.
Definition Theatre's staging, which is intimate and challenging, provides an atmosphere that draws the actor and audience closer together, allowing you to become thoroughly engrossed in every word and movement of the performance. This works for the Amplify Winner production, Black Bone, as the actors seemed to relish the closeness and communication it provides, and Farkhid-Dean's realistic, sharp, and enthralling dialogue keeps you actively engaged and connected. Phillips's Amplify Series, which is relatable and informative to the black experiences, "Carrying the torch" of August Wilson's desire to bring the black experience to light. Black Bone is a riveting reminder of what it means to be black, the price we pay, and the struggles placed upon us because of our beautiful hue. Kudos to Definition Theatre for redefining the American canon and highlighting exceptional playwrights of color within the world of theater.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Definition Theatre
Black Bone
By Trina Fakhrid-Deen
Directed by Carla Stillwell
May 30 - June 29, 2025
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