Red Velvet is a play written by Lolita Chakrabarti and directed by Omari Newton. It is based on the true story of actor Ira Aldridge’s experience being cast as the first black actor to play Shakespeare’s Othello. The story takes place in the 19th century. Red Velvet explores themes of racism, relationships, historical change, and the realities of being a theatre actor.
The story begins in 1867 in Łódź, Poland. We see a much older, exhausted, and irritable Ira in his dressing room preparing for a show. A young Polish journalist attempts to interview Ira, but he constantly fails to answer her questions accordingly. When asked about his London premiere in 1833, he showed great distaste towards the city, insinuating that his time there was rather dreadful.
The story then goes back 30 years, marking Ira’s acting debut at London’s Theatre Royal. He was chosen to replace a white actor who used blackface makeup in the role of Othello. His presence caused mixed reactions among his cast mates. Supporting characters of Red Velvet include Connie, the servant; Henry Forrester, an actor; Charles Kean, the son of the theatre owner; Edmund Kean and the fiancé of Ellen Tree; Betty Lovell, an actress; Terrence; Ira’s valet, and Ellen Tree an actress and the fiancée of Charles Kean.
The play reached its eye-opening climax once Ira learned of the racist reviews by the London critics. Next, he was betrayed by a longtime friend. Things quickly went downhill for Ira. Ira had always been passionate about his acting career. He carried himself with an open mind despite the adversities life may offer. The racism he’s faced impacted him negatively to the point where he began applying white-face makeup at the end of the play to conceal his insecurities.
The actors of Red Velvet possessed the ability to captivate the audience very well. They displayed dramatic emotions, gestures, and movements to express their characters. The actor who stood out to me was Quincy Armorer, who played Ira Aldridge. He demonstrated a lot of confidence and had alluring charm and charisma. The comedic timing of the play was spot on. The audience let out many laughs and gasps throughout. It was delightful to watch.
The set design of Red Velvet was the greatest I’ve ever seen thus far. The set design incorporated warm colours and lighting as well. The scene transitions flowed very nicely.
The lesson I learned from Red Velvet is that no matter how great you are at something, there will always be someone who will oppose you. Will their words build you up? Or break you down? You decide. Your purpose is to fulfill your passions.
Rating: 5/5
Date watched: April 11th, 2024
Location: Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, Vancouver, BC
Theatre 604 