Palmares

What I liked

Maurice Shaw was a force!

What I didn't like

More seats! And that I hope it can continue to evolve as it is felt into again and again in new ways. This is the beginning so the hick ups will smooth, like forgetting lines, or missing moves.

My overall impression

Palmares Play is an absolute masterpiece that left me feeling uplifted and inspired.
The Bush Captain opened my heart with his cry, “…Palmares did not come!” It resonated deeply, capturing the universal experience of delay, discord, and detachment from the source of our freedom. His story and pain humanized him, preventing him from being a complete villain in this sensitive historical role. Through his scars and tears, he is shown mercy by the king of Palmares, posing the question that stayed with me: What will I do when I am free.. from fear, from self sabotaging, and from my past?

The play is a remarkable blend of fast humor, slow-building emotional intensity, breathtaking movement, and a powerful rhythm that transcends the script. The portrayal of all the strong women in different walks of Palmares was sensational. Their love for life, family, and freedom is their power. Dandara’s offering dance moved me to tears, Mae de Santo’s spiritual touch made me swoon, and Morena’s humor had me laughing out loud. Ashley, as Black Exu, was captivating and masterfully maintained a clear message within a swirling, multi-dimensional trance, providing crucial context to the narrative.

Not to be overshadowed, the male actors were equally remarkable. The fight dance elements added an exhilarating dimension to the show, and I found myself shedding tears as Zumbi held his king, symbolizing humility in the transfer of responsibility.

The music in Palmares Play was simply outstanding! It conveyed a powerful message that freedom burns and lives within the stories of our lives. The play served as a poignant reminder of the long-term harm caused by systems of slavery, while also highlighting the availability to improved social structures that can arise through adversity.

Palmares is a breathtaking experience that combines history, emotion, humor, and thought-provoking themes. It left me feeling empowered, reminded of the importance of freedom, and inspired to contribute to the restructuring of internal and societal systems for the benefit of everyone. I cannot recommend this play highly enough.