Per the AmaZing Theatre Company’s homepage, “Portraits of Freedom is not just a performance; it’s an emotional journey through the layered experiences that define African/Black American history.” The “portraits,” or monologues, written by Percy W. Thomas, use artful storytelling to shine lights on significant characters and historical moments in African/Black history. At a time when such historical realities are being shunted away, ignored, and disregarded, the messages are more important than ever.
The show’s creative twist is that an award-winning Black actor is once again being offered a well-paying but subpar exploitation role to consider. As the actor, Pierre Walters is furious that the agent Dexter seems intent on ignoring his refusal to portray the old stereotype characters, no matter how much money is at stake. Once he slams down the telephone, he turns his attention to the rack of costumes representing the characters he has played over the years.
As the actor, Walters is transformed as he puts on the ceremonial robe and headdress of the strong African Warrior King he once portrayed. The actor exudes strength and resilience as he becomes Shaka Zulu, fighting against the oppression of his tribe and people. With focus and impressive oratory skills, Walters as the actor provides snippets about the characters he has portrayed over the years including artists, inventors, and scientists, some names more familiar like Carter G. Woodson, while others are nearly forgotten relics in the past. Having brought the audience on as witness to history, and even invited us to join in for some of the old powerful spirituals, the actor adjusts his tone in dealing with the agent. Instead of lambasting him, the actor’s subsequent phone call to Dexter is more explanatory to relay the importance of history. The theatrical transition is important for all of us to incorporate the messages into our own life awareness.
As in previous performances in the space, excellent lighting design by Charlie Danforth helped to set the atmosphere and tone for the monologues, and Jennifer Jones’ light and sound tech brought in African drumming and spirituals to help tell the story.
The Portraits of Freedom production is intended “to encourage audiences to engage in meaningful conversations about race, identity, and community — a crucial step toward building a more equitable society.” Proving that history matters, the tenacity of AmaZing Theater continues to fulfill its vision with Portraits of Freedom — to produce events of historical and social significance for culturally diverse populations.
Running Time: 70 minutes with no intermission.
Portraits of Freedom plays through March 9, 2025 (Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm), presented by AmaZing Theatre Company performing at the Odd Fellows Lodge, #6430, 1308 Olney Sandy Spring Road, Sandy Spring, MD. Purchase tickets ($30) online or by calling (301) 503-3403.
Portraits of Freedom
Written and Directed by Percy W. Thomas
Featuring: Pierre Walters
STAFF AND CREW
Executive Producer: Alice H. Thomas
Lighting Designer: Charlie Danforth
Light and Sound Tech: Jennifer Jones
Stage Manager: Jessica Rota