

'Slave Play' Playwright Jeremy O. Harris Works To Diversity Theater
Jun 21, 2024
Jeremy O. Harris, the award-winning playwright behind the provocative 'Slave Play,' discusses the intense themes of race, intimacy, and trauma in his work. He highlights the significance of Black-only performance nights and the play's cultural impact on Broadway. Harris also reflects on his personal journey through wealth, race, and masculinity, emphasizing how these experiences shaped his artistic vision. Additionally, he shares insights from a new HBO documentary that chronicles 'Slave Play,' providing a behind-the-scenes look at audience reactions and the rehearsal process.
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Episode notes
Party Conversation Inspiration
- Jeremy O'Harris's Slave Play was inspired by a party conversation.
- A man casually discussed a sensitive sexual topic, but became uncomfortable when race was mentioned.
Discomfort in Dialogue
- The play's exploration of race and intimacy extends beyond sexual relationships.
- It highlights the discomfort in American society surrounding discussions of race and responsibility.
Varied Audience Reactions
- Audiences reacted differently to Slave Play, with Black and white viewers often laughing at separate moments.
- This highlighted the varying perspectives on race and the play's themes.