‘TASHA is set in a modern republic. White Nationalists are occupying the government. Black communities are under martial law. Newly elected President Waters rules that from henceforth all who defy the police are criminals and will remain unburied should they be killed. Natasha Brown, 27, seeking justice, buries her cousin, murdered by law enforcement. In doing so, ‘Tasha ignites a prophecy long buried, the criminalization of Brown people. But is this prophecy reversible? ‘TASHA was inspired by Sophocles’ ANTIGONE.

Playwright’s Note: ‘TASHA was written while I was facilitating a Devised Theatre class. The class aimed to magnify the voices of young women of color, murdered by the police – racial violence perpetrated against the female Black body is seldom told. A prototype of TASHA was first performed for and by Black and Latina students. I strongly urge that any future production of ‘TASHA evolve from a performance lab among theatre students. The process should amplify Greek tragedy through the inclusion of non-traditional voices. The lab goal should be to empower and inspire young artists of color to address race, gender, and the criminalization of Black people.

-WARNING-

Following is a statement by Sandra L. Shullman, Ph.D., president of the American Psychological Association, regarding the mental health consequences of recent high-profile violent events targeting African Americans:

“We are living in a racism pandemic, which is taking a heavy psychological toll on our African American citizens. The health consequences are dire. Racism is associated with a host of psychological consequences, including depression, anxiety, and other serious, sometimes debilitating conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. Moreover, the stress caused by racism can contribute to the development of cardiovascular and other physical diseases. The American Psychological Association urges those who are experiencing trauma in the aftermath of these tragedies to practice self-care. Connect with family, friends, and other community support people, talk about your feelings and limit your exposure and that of your children to news media and viral videos. Seek professional help if you need it.”

Purchase tickets here

View the press release here