THEATRE REVIEW
Carolyn Ratteray in “Both And (a play about laughing while black)” at Boston Court Pasadena (Photo – Frank Ishman)
Both And is a rare trip into the African American woman’s experience through the lens of humor, honesty, and impending grief. Carolyn Ratteray gives a transformational one-woman performance as Teayanna and the other uniquely powerful two female characters in this show.
By Jordan Lynn
This play is performed using clowning, poetic text, video and an incredible performance by Carolyn Ratteray. I am as a theater goer, new to the concept of clowning as a way to experience intense emotion. I’m happy to report Carolyn’s performance was so rich and engaging that I would not hesitate to see this medium again. As the clown Carolyn delivers an emotional performance that will give you both “Ah Ha” and “Ha ha” moments and at times may even bring tears to your eyes.
As a woman of color who identifies as African American, I related to this performance in ways I did not think were possible. Each strong and well-rounded female character in this cast had me nodding my head at similar experiences. Be it your mother’s purse which seems magical in nature, that rage felt at being unsafe in your own skin (because of your skin), and that wonderment/resentment you may feel at those who look like you but don’t experience that feeling. How do I honor my ancestor’s legacy and yet forge my own future? How do I obtain Both And?
“Both And (a play about laughing while black)” at Boston Court Pasadena (Photo – Frank Ishman)
Both And examines the Middle Passage and the journey of our collective ancestors to the new world where joy seemed to have been lost but could be found again, if only you know where to look.
Carolyn and her unique characters each with their own profound experiences will help you ask yourself:
How much of my past do I know?
What can I honor from the past?
And Is it time to let go of it?
Both And will definitely have you laughing and possibly crying as you join Teayanna on her journey to see her mother off to the other shore.
I was transported far from Boston Court in Pasadena and found myself standing with Teayanna on that sandy shore rooting for her and her mother to complete their journey and find what they both needed to move on.
I would highly encourage anyone to see Both And (a play about laughing while black). There is something in this gem for everyone. This performance could change your life. I know it has changed mine.
Both And (a play about laughing while black) Boston Court Pasadena 70 N. Mentor Avenue Performances extended thru May 22 Box Office (626) 683-6801 Tickets: $20 – $39 BostonCourtPasadena.org
I saw it last night and am seeing it again tonight, as there are only three performances left and I must see it again. Although it was presented from a historically Black point of view, so much of it is universal, anyone can relate to it and laugh, gasp, and be moved to tears. The friend I went with had already seen it, wanted to see it again. We met with the author/actress, some other audience members and the theater’s artistic director for an impromptu chat after the play. So amazing, I hope it makes the rounds in other theaters. Inspirational, especially the takeaway “honor it, don’t carry it”.