Flyin' West By Pearl Cleage Tickets

Flyin' West is a play written by Pearl Cleage that tells the story of four African American women who settled in the all-black town of Nicodemus, Kansas after the Civil War. The play was first performed at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre in 1992 and has since been produced in various theaters across the United States.

Theater plays an important role in Flyin' West as it is the medium through which the characters' stories are brought to life. Through the dialogue and actions of the characters on stage, the audience is able to understand the struggles and triumphs of black women during the post-Civil War era. Theater allows for a visual and experiential connection between the audience and the characters, making the issues addressed in the play even more poignant.

One of the most compelling aspects of Flyin' West is how the play challenges traditional African American stereotypes. The play presents complex and diverse female characters with their own unique personalities, rather than limiting them to one-dimensional representations. For example, Miss Leah, a former slave and one of the main characters in the play, defies the stereotype of the "mammy" figure commonly assigned to black women in literature and media. Instead, she is shown as a strong and resourceful woman, capable of defending her property and fighting for her freedom.

Another significant theme in Flyin' West is the idea of sisterhood and community among women. The bond between the four women in the play serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of African American women during this time period. Through their support of each other, the women are able to overcome numerous trials and obstacles and ultimately succeed in creating a safe and prosperous community in Nicodemus.

Overall, Flyin' West is a powerful piece of theater that highlights the complexities and richness of the African American experience. Through its portrayal of multi-dimensional female characters and themes of sisterhood and community, the play remains relevant and important today. As with many great works of theater, Flyin' West is not just a story, but an opportunity for engagement, discussion, and reflection.