In Red and Brown Water

In the Red and Brown Water, directed by Steve Broadnax, opened with five women. They all took turns talking as the spotlight lit up their faces. At first, I had no idea what they were talking about. However, I knew that this opening scene was of importance, as all introductions are. The main character, Oya, was a talented track star that had been given many opportunities while she was young. Oya also was popular with the men in town. Everyone wanted to date her, but her mother never approved of any man that came by. One very big opportunity that was given to Oya was a scholarship to a big State school. Oya was very interested in the offer, however her mother was her whole life. When she found out that her mother was not sick, she turned down her offer at school and decided to take care of her mother. Not long after, Oya’s mother passed away and left Oya to take care of the house. Most African American women depended on their husbands for income, shelter, and food. It was expected that Oya married and started a family. Oya and another younger gentlemen Shango had a coy love from the very beginning.  As Oya and Shango began to reach adulthood, it became more difficult for them to be together. While Shango was away in the army, Oya passed the time with another man. Shango would came back periodically, and Oya always went to seek love from him. Oya ended her life as soon as she learned that Shango would be the father of another woman’s baby. Oya cut off her ear and gave it to him because Shango would always rub her ear, and that symbolized the kind love the two shared.

The most eye opening part of the story was when Oya’s mother died. Once she died, Oya was left all alone to care for herself. She also was not able to go to school for track since she rejected her offer the year before. Oya’s intention was to go to school and continue her track career, however that was no longer in the cards for her.  Unfortunately, she did not achieve her goal. Instead, she was forced to live her life the same way every African American girl her age did. She would marry and become a stay at home mother.

I was most compelled with Aunt Elegua in the play. I thought her character added some comical relief in the play. I especially liked when she got on the dance floor and shook her booty. I also liked her comments toward Shango when she first met him. Her comments made it awkward for Shango and also left the audience feeling uncomfortable and on their feet.

If I were to critique the play after viewing it, my only complaint would be that the introductions of each character did not flow. It was distracting when a character announced the moment in which they would walk in, or when they mentioned their state of mind. Besides that, everything else worked.

This was the first time I had seen a live play at the state theatre. Prior to attending the play, I assumed that it would be like any other typical high school play I viewed. There was bound to be some cliché story line, along with sing alongs that were upbeat and giddy. My expectations were not that high considering it was mandatory, and well, it was a play.  However after viewing the play, my opinion changed. I enjoyed how the play was not too conservative. I liked how it was meant for a college, student audience. The cursing, music, and dancing were all relatable, and allowed me to make a better connection with the characters.