What I liked
As a drama student in New York in the 1960’s, I saw Sidney Poitier in Lorraine Hansberry’s 1959 ground-breaking drama, ‘A Raisin in The Sun’, attended Harry Belafonte concerts, and marched for Civil Rights in the safety of the North. Other idealistic young friends went South into dangerous territory and many gave their lives for the cause. In this well-researched and illuminating play, writer/director Mohammed Ali Ojarigi, imagines the conversation between two great stars, Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte, who went to Mississippi in 1964. Hidden in a safe house, in the dangerous heart of the violence, it appears that their presence, as examples of the dignity of black men, might give courage to those trapped in this state where the KKK reigns. It’s a dialogue that presents an eternal question – how does one fight injustice? Is merely being a good example – or in Poitier’s case a great example – enough? Being a martyr brings recognition but might being an icon be equally contributory? See the play and decide for yourself as there are no easy answers to this conundrum. As Poitier, Eli Goree is extraordinary, capturing the body language, the vocal inflections and the charismatic glow of this familiar screen and stage giant. Thomas Ramseur-King is physically less recognizable as Belafonte, but effective as he nags and denigrates Poitier’s contribution to the cause. This play helps tell the story of the tumultuous years when an oppressed and violated segment of our country bravely fought back. Personally, I can never forget the sacrifices, and the brutality, that marked that era and I applaud those who stood up to evil and those who now, through the arts, continue the resistance.
What I didn't like
Slow down the visuals that are reminders of the Civil Rights battles. They are vivid and necessary reminders of what went on for over a decade.
My overall impression
Reveals how Belafonte, in his fierce dedication to the Civil Rights cause, persuaded Poitier to boldly show up for his people.
