America is post-Civil Rights Movement, post-Black Nationalist, post-first black president. Yet a version of every problem that provoked the movements for civil rights, African-American self-sufficiency and black political empowerment remain stubbornly – and dangerously – present.
This is the 21st century cultural moment probed in “Post-,” the new production by Black Anthology, which plays at Washington University’s Edison Theatre 7 p.m. Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8.
According to organizers, “Post-” evaluates “the effects of micro-aggressions and the continued relevance of black cultural organizations in an era of ‘post-race.’”
“Post-” is produced by Kendall Maxwell, a sophomore at Washington University.
“Black Anthology is an integral part of this campus’ history that has brought the triumphs and trials of Washington University’s African-American community,” Maxwell said.
“The fact that it has remained a tradition over the past 25 years is a testament to its power and effectiveness as an emotionally moving and thought-provoking production. Being a part of the process has been a true blessing.”
“Post-” is written by Josh Aiken, a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences whose next stop is a Rhodes Scholarship to the University of Oxford in England.
“I have always wanted to give voice to marginalized communities, whether they have been communities of color or LGBT communities,” Aiken said. “I have had the experience of being able to live openly and freely and to be who I am. Knowing that so many people can’t do that motivates me.”
Black Anthology was founded in 1989 by Marcia Hayes-Harris to provide a means of commemorating the history and progress of African Americans. Since its creation, the program was totally student-run, from script to set to costume design.
However, the show has evolved from performances of compilations centered on pertinent literature to a full-length scripted play featuring music and dance performances. It’s the university’s oldest student cultural production.
“I have served as Black Anthology’s faculty advisor for nine years, and it has been amazing to watch students develop an appreciation for the arts, both on stage and behind the scenes,” said Wilmetta Toliver-Diallo, assistant dean of the University’s College of Arts & Sciences and senior lecturer.
“Watching the students brainstorm ideas, from the script through the final production, is a phenomenal treat to witness. We have addressed a myriad of themes over the years. Those instrumental in founding Black Anthology on Washington University’s campus will have a special appreciation of this year’s show.”
Tickets for “Post-” are $10 for students and $12 for the general public. Tickets are available at the Edison Theatre Box Office, on the Danforth Campus of Washington University, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. The box office also is open one hour prior to showtime, and tickets may be purchased online at edison.wustl.edu/tickets/. Group rates may be available for parties of 10 or more.
