On Wednesday, September 16th, I had the honor of joining the lovely Christine Cullen, who is the Accounts Administrator for the Irish Arts Center, to view their production of The Cambria, a play in two acts dedicated to a beautiful chapter of Frederick Douglass' life. Unfortunately, it is a story that remains left out of the education of Black American history and, I learned, Irish history.
Skillfully crafted by Donal O'Kelly, The Cambria recounts the days Frederick Douglass spent at sea, seeking asylum in Ireland after publishing his autobiography, making him a wanted man in the United States for being an escaped slave. The ship, after which the play was named, finds itself setting the stage for Douglass, who discovers he cannot escape his identity nor his destiny.
Performed by O'Kelly and Sorcha Fox, the pair progress through a myriad of characters and do so meticulously. I found myself in awe of how they both would have to switch between several characters in one scene - sometimes having to share characters - yet they are still completely connected to the essence of each individual. The sea captain, a choir director, a crew man, a slave owner, his daughter, Frederick Douglass and more give us their voice throughout the piece.
I have to admit, it took me a while to come to terms with O'Kelly's portrayal of Douglass, as neither resembles the other... by a long shot. However, watching the depth and tenderness the writer took as he brought one of my historical heroes to life was honest and so committed to truth that I felt honored to watch it.
What I found most interesting were the times that the structure of the play seemed to breakdown into a more abstract nature, though never deviating from the integrity of the play. At these moments, I found that there was a rhythm moving the play forward that reminded me of African dance, drawing me in. There were moments I was nearly driven to tears as stories of the trans-Atlantic slave trade were shared, reminding me of my how my own family came out of slavery and I am the result.
It was an educational experience as well, as I learned about Frederick Douglass' travels in Ireland, who welcomed him with uproarious acclaim, refusing to return him to the United States. This initiated his two year tour through out Ireland and Great Britain, during which his freedom was purchased from his slave-owners.
I give the Irish Arts Center's production of The Cambria my highest recommendation and hope this piece continues to evolve and enjoys growing success. Get out and see it before its run comes to a close on October 25th!
The Irish Arts Center, in association with Classical Theatre of Harlem, presents:
The Cambria
(performed in rotation with Frederick Douglass Now)
Tue-Fri 8 pm | Sat 2 pm & 8 pm | Sun 3pm & 7 pm
Presented on alternating evenings and matinees through October 25th only.
Each Performance : $50* general, $42* IAC & CTH members
Thanks so much to Christine Cullen, who also represents the Irish Arts Center on Twitter (@IrishArtsCenter), for the invitation, conversation and hospitality! You truly are one of the Phierce Pholks out there in the world!
'Til next time beautiful people,
Stay wonderful!
Read more about:
Frederick Douglass
The Irish Arts Center
The Cambria by Donal O'Kelly / Frederick Douglass Now by Roger Guenveur Smith
Classical Theatre of Harlem
