TED Talks Daily A historical musical that examines black identity in the 1901 World's Fair | Amma Y. Ghartey-Tagoe Kootin
Nov 8, 2019
Amma Y. Ghartey-Tagoe Kootin, an artist and TED Fellow, dives into her upcoming musical "At Buffalo," which explores black identity through the lens of the 1901 World's Fair. She draws from historical archives to shine a light on the complex narratives surrounding race during this pivotal event. The discussion highlights the importance of reclaiming marginalized voices, alongside questions about how these themes resonate with today's societal issues. Through engaging storytelling, Ghartey-Tagoe Kootin invites reflection on our shared history and ongoing conversations about race.
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The Pan-American Exposition's Racial Drama
- "At Buffalo", a musical, explores the 1901 Pan-American Exposition's archive.
- It reveals conflicting displays of Black identity during the fair.
Conflicting Representations of Blackness
- The fair presented conflicting portrayals of Blackness: a "savage" origin, a "happy slave" narrative, and Black achievement.
- This created tension between different groups within the African diaspora.
Stories within the Fair
- Tanya and Henrietta, a vaudeville duo, struggle with performing minstrel shows.
- African businessman Tevey navigates a "human zoo."