If we dissolve the issue of race, do we lose our power, leverage and identity in the industry?

Person who called the session: Adanna Oji

Who attended the session: Babou, Sola, Tonderai, Anna, Hannah

Summary of discussion:

Culture/background can influence good theatre.
If race taken away – interesting to see what theatre would evolve.
Should use your power and race to influence and show/share with other cultures.
Negative connotations from word ‘race’ – should be acknowledged and reclaimed – ONE RACE
Black community uses ‘race’ as ownership on certain areas such as racism, etc. If race issue dissolved perhaps dissolve boundaries that dictate ‘silent’ rule of who can write/direct plays about what.
Need to understand that ‘race’ comes with historical context and that when dealing with it you need to empathise with that.
Theatre and race – 2 different elements. Theatre: relate. Race: abstract word used to oppress.
People can be ostracising and selfish with race and theatre – “You can’t do this subject because you’re not/are black”.
People can become selfish with ‘race’ or use the colour card because their stories haven’t been told.
Leverage – Yes sometimes there is leverage when you have more racial/cultural experience at your disposal.
Power – we all have it. We may not tap into it but it’s there.
Identity – that’s where you’re from as a person – YOU.
Leverage – In the black community you can get funding for being a ‘minority’ - perform during Black History Month, etc. No race issue, no funding?