Although it has gone relatively unmentioned in recent posts, I have continued to regularly attend rehearsals for The Adventures of the Black Girl in Her Search for God. The show has come a long way and, despite being weeks away from opening, the cast has completed several full run throughs. With each rehearsal new elements are introduced that bring fullness to the world of the play. The actors are settling into their characters and bringing more and more specificity to their actions. Even though I have seen each scene dozens of times at this point, performances such as Tara Rosling’s troubled missionary, Guy Bannerman’s ridiculously obnoxious Lord of Hosts, and Ben Sanders’ ‘mansplaining’ King Solomon still have me in stitches every time.
With each run the show’s many-layered message becomes clearer as well. Similarly to Mrs. Warren’s Profession, this play encourages audiences to read fiction — Shaw’s plays included — with today’s eyes. The intention is an important one, but the play is so filled with levity and hilarity that it easily avoids feeling preachy.
One exciting new addition in the rehearsal hall is a mock stage. This show heavily depends on actor-interaction with the stage and set, so it has been very useful to finally have a visual for how the story’s many characters will appear and disappear from all corners of the space to practice with. The physical restraint of the 10ft² stage has become more of a tool for this ensemble than an obstacle. The high energy of the show is only emphasized by its material confinement and creative spatial relationships have developed out of necessity. Having the sound designer, John Gzowski, in the room pretty consistently over the last week also adds to the completeness of the performance. Gimmicks are made even funnier by well-timed sound effects and a sound track of original Gregorian remixes drives home the absurdity of the Black Girl’s (played by Natasha Mumba) journey.
Ravi Jain directs without stringent expectations. His willingness to take offers from his actors and to not shy away from what may be considered over-the-top has brought the script to life off the page in a way that some may be hesitant to attempt with a new play. The rehearsal atmosphere has always been made open and positive — free of intimidation. Hard work and productive risk-taking have been the happy result.
As the play under Ravi’s direction has been progressing more and more independently of playwright Lisa and dramaturg Joanna’s observation, I am looking forward to their perspective on the show’s development next time they attend rehearsal. I am sure they will be delighted!
Shaw and Tell 