Blues for Mr. Charlie
James Baldwin‘s
Blues for Mr. Charlie
Alice Jepson Theatre
Richmond, VA
April 2018
Directed by Chuck Mike & Tawnya Pettiford-Wates
Scenic Design by Josafath Reynoso
Costume Design by Johann Stegmeir
Lighting & Sound Design by Maja White
Stage Manager: Sharon Gregory
Produced by University of Richmond, Department of Theatre & Dance
Photo Credit: Josafath Reynoso
“Blues for Mister Charlie” is a play written by James Baldwin that was first performed in 1964. The play is a powerful exploration of racism, violence, and the complexities of race relations in the United States during the Civil Rights era.
The narrative is loosely based on the true story of the murder of Emmett Till, a young African American boy, and unfolds in a small Southern town. The central event of the play is the murder of Richard Henry, a Black man, by a white man named Lyle Britten. The town is deeply divided along racial lines, and the play examines the impact of this tragedy on the community.
The title, “Blues for Mister Charlie,” reflects the mournful and reflective tone of the play as it delves into the systemic racism, injustice, and violence faced by Black individuals in America. The characters, both Black and white, grapple with their own biases, fears, and prejudices in the aftermath of the murder.
Baldwin’s work is known for its sharp critique of racial inequality and its exploration of the human condition. “Blues for Mister Charlie” remains a relevant and thought-provoking piece that engages with the complexities of racial tensions and the struggle for justice in American society.
