Episode 119: Sandra Seaton on the Bunny Briggs and Olivette Miller Archives
Jun 27, 2023
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Sandra Seaton, a playwright and former professor, discusses Dr. Bunny Briggs and Olivette Miller archives, Shuffle Along, Black storytelling, racial dynamics in entertainment, tap dance heritage, African American literature, and the importance of preserving Black cultural heritage in the arts.
Tap dance storytelling showcased by Bunny Briggs in 'In a Sentimental Mood'
Preservation of African American cultural heritage through authentic storytelling by Sandra Seaton
Immersion in historical narratives to challenge stereotypes and share underrepresented histories
Deep dives
Preserving the Legacy of Dr. Bunny Briggs
Dr. Bunny Briggs, an iconic tap dancer, was known for his rhythmic tap dancing skills and mastery in performances like the Broadway show 'Black and Blue.' His influence was far-reaching, impacting those who watched him, such as the host of the Tap Love Tour podcast. Briggs' dancing style, particularly in 'In a Sentimental Mood,' showcased the storytelling aspects of tap dance, revealing its depth and complexity.
Championing Black Cultural Legacy and Representation
Sandra Seton, as a playwright and curator of the Dr. Bunny Briggs and Olivet Miller archive at Yale, highlighted the importance of preserving African American cultural heritage. Through her family connection with playwright Florinoy Miller and experiences in a close-knit Tennessee community, Seton delved into reclaiming overlooked narratives. She aimed to showcase a broader, more authentic depiction of African American life beyond stereotypical portrayals in media, emphasizing the need for accurate representation and recognition of diverse stories.
Legacy and Historical Significance in Theatre
Sandra Seton's creative process involved deeply immersive research, delving into historical narratives to craft compelling plays and librettos. From crafting an imaginative diary for Sally Hemings to exploring the life of her own family members during the era of segregation, Seton's work focused on honoring and sharing rich historical legacies. By intertwining personal family stories with extensive research, Seton aimed to bring to life underrepresented histories, challenging stereotypes and presenting a more nuanced view of African American experiences through storytelling.
Preserving History and Community Impact
Preserving history and community impact are central themes discussed in the podcast. The episode delves into the significant efforts made to preserve the legacies and archives of influential individuals, such as Olivette Miller and Bunny Briggs. It highlights the importance of safeguarding historical documents and artifacts to ensure the preservation of African American culture and the impact of community rituals and structures. The narrative emphasizes the challenges faced in protecting and maintaining historical records, shedding light on the necessity of safeguarding the rich cultural heritage for future generations.
Racial Injustice and Community Resilience
Racial injustice and community resilience are explored in the podcast, focusing on a specific incident after World War II in a small town. The episode recounts a racially charged event involving a returning black soldier and the subsequent community response, showcasing themes of racial tensions and community solidarity. It highlights the resistance against racial discrimination, the role of influential community members in advocating for justice, and the challenges faced by African Americans in navigating systemic inequalities and preserving cultural traditions amidst adversity.
On today’s show, we are speaking with Sandra Seaton who is a playwright, librettist, former professor of creative writing and African American literature at Central Michigan University and the curator of the Dr. Bunny Briggs and Olivette Miller archives housed at Yale's James Weldon Johnson Archives. Our conversation spans the archives, Flournoy Miller and Shuffle Along, the Columbia Race Resistance and the importance of Black storytelling.
Link to Dr. Bunny Briggs and Olivette Miller archives here: https://archives.yale.edu/repositories/11/resources/12332?fbclid=IwAR3VFDfj8dcGpQY297eF3A2fw1CyfF9t0d0655A_eUefc78YqapPZuqfqCw
Additional audio: Duke Ellington Sacred Concert featuring Bunny Briggs
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