By Bill Stokes, Publisher
The audience is transported to a pivotal moment in Springfield’s history through the eyes of Bonaparte Baker. A decade after enduring a devastating attack on his community in Wilmington, North Carolina, Bonaparte finds himself in Springfield, the city of his birth and the hometown of our beloved Abraham Lincoln. Bonaparte is drawn to the promise of safety for Springfield’s Black community, a haven seemingly untouched by the widespread violence against Black Americans in the South. Yet, as the play unfolds in the summer of 1908, Springfield emerges as a battleground, challenging the myths of sanctuary and exposing the deep-seated racial tensions that erupt into violence. This gripping narrative invites the audience to confront the complexities of history, remember the impact of the riots of 1908, and the struggle for justice and equality that still lingers for some in our society.”
“Outraged” is scheduled for two more performances this weekend at the UIS Studio Theatre: tonight at 7:30 PM and tomorrow at 3 PM. Tickets are available at the venue; there is very limited seating still available.
Playwright and Director Tim Crawford also plays the part of Bonaparte Baker. His standout performance shows us a character riddled with conflict and regret. In the end, we find ourselves conflicted about whether Bonaparte is a good or bad man.
Performed at the UIS Studio Theatre, the simple set design plays well to the storyline, which takes place in the home of Henry (Kess Robertson), Joanie (Mariah Brooks), and their son Junebug (Marcus Butler). They live a simple life based on good family values, and when Bonaparte shows up, we witness the beginning of the tragic stories that shock our consciousness and give the play its meaning.
Throughout the play, we are given insights into the scenes by “townspeople” (played by Stephen Sykes, Francisco Valenzuela, and Elise Willow), who stand in the wings of the stage, narrating the words from local newspaper stories about what’s happening in Springfield before and during the riots. To help tell the tragic stories, two other characters are involved, Pookie (Reggie Guyton) and Lucretia (Patricia James Davis), both adding considerable talent to the ensemble of local actors.
In conclusion, “Outraged” achieves what it set out to do, and I recommend it to anyone willing to learn and grow from diving into our history. Tim Crawford lets us walk in another man’s shoes in a way that helps us realize how vulnerable our domestic tranquility can be when living among extreme prejudice.
