Storytelling in plays

I recently performed in a play called Spunk by Zora Neale Hurston at the Union for Contemporary Art in Omaha. First, I have to recognize The Union for creating a wonderful space in north Omaha that embraces the arts, builds culture, supports and teaches local artists throughout the city. If you’re interested in seeing any productions or becoming more involved, please visit their website: http://www.u-ca.org/.   

Back to Spunk! Spunk tells the stories of African Americans in the 20^th century. The three tales focus on men and women going through what the play describes as the “laughin', cryin', lovin', feelin' all kindsa pain' that comes from being African American.” The three tales display the dynamics of black culture which include stories of love, family relationships and the reality of life in the South for blacks in the early and mid 1900s.

The first tale called “Sweat” tells the story of a young washerwoman who is abused and cheated on by her husband but ultimately, she triumphs over her husband. The second piece “Story in Harlem Slang” is a piece about two street Harlemese men (described as male prostitutes) trying to out-hustle each other and win the favor of a woman for a meal on her day off from work. The third tale, “Gilded Six Bits,” is a story of a husband and wife who are deceived by money. The wife ultimately cheats on the husband in an attempt to help them gain “gold.” 

By participating in this play I learned the basics of acting, the process of identifying characters and allowing those characters to come to life on stage. I also connected with some amazing local artists and directors. I already miss going to rehearsals.  Being a part of this play also taught me three concepts about storytelling. The structure or process one uses to create their story might differ across channels (writing, movies, stage, music, broadcast news, etc.) but I believe these three concepts must be executed to successfully tell a memorable story.

1. You can't effectively tell a story unless you fully understand its history and all the characters involved.
2. A story can go where you allow it to go. You have the power to "show and tell" so do it authentically well.
3. The best part about storytelling are the relationships you build along the way, don't take them for granted.

I think back to the time when I worked in broadcast news as a reporter. These three steps were a part of every news story I delivered. I had to understand all the pieces and allow my creative pen to flow. Most importantly my goal was to find a way to connect with the interviewees and not just look at them as a “prize interview” for a story but a person whose voice/story needs to be heard.  Between storytelling in theatre and broadcast news, theatre storytelling is definitely my favorite.

Any theatre or performing arts experts out there? What are some important concepts about storytelling in theatre that you believe to be important?