BSR_S10E39 - Ontaria Kim Wilson - The Great Privation

Dive into this insightful episode where we discuss the powerful production The Great Privation by Nia Akilah Robinson. Director Ontaria Kim Wilson shares her journey of bringing this historically rich and emotionally charged play to life in Philadelphia, highlighting themes of love, resilience, and social justice. Key topics: The historical context and significance of The Great Privation and its ties to Philadelphia’s Black history How the play explores the treatment of Black bodies during pandemics and in medical research The creative process behind casting, character development, and physical storytelling The importance of honoring cultural traditions, spirituality, and history in theater The rapid rehearsal timeline and the emotional/mental care of actors navigating multiple roles The role of the janitor as the story’s griot, guide, and spiritual conduit The significance of Philadelphia’s Mother Bethel AME Church in African American history and activism The journey of the play from Soho Rep to Woolly Mammoth and now in South Philadelphia Timestamps:  00:00 - Welcome and overview of The Great Privation 00:35 - Introducing Ontaria Wilson and her connection to Theater Exile 01:17 - The significance of The Great Privation and its themes of love and perseverance 02:57 - The play’s focus on Black bodies, pandemics, and societal neglect 05:44 - Personal reflections on initial impressions and character insights 09:30 - The creative development process and character relationships 14:02 - Casting and actor contributions in physical storytelling 18:19 - The importance of cultural and spiritual traditions in performance 19:00 - The intense rehearsal schedule and actor wellness strategies 24:10 - Philadelphia’s history and the play’s connection to local sites like Mother Bethel 30:28 - The play’s journey from New York to Philadelphia and its significance 35:18 - The artistic team behind the production and their creative vision 41:45 - Audience takeaway and the play’s message of collective responsibility and reimagining community Resources & Links: The Great Privation by Nia Akilah Robinson (https://theatreexile.org/event/the-gr...) Mother Bethel AME Church (https://mbethel.org/) Theatre Exile (https://theatreexile.org/) Mother Zion United Methodist Church (https://mountzionumc.org/) Follow us and our links here:  https://bio.site/em3ry