2024-2025 SEASON - "THE PAST AS PRESENT"
KC Melting Pot kicks off its 10th season by paying homage to the enduring legacy of African American theater. Featuring a lineup of compelling plays, we celebrate the ongoing mission and vision of KC Melting Pot Theatre’s founders, Harvey, and Linda Williams, who steadfastly uphold the tradition of African American theater in Kansas City. Inspired by Harry Elam's illuminating work on August Wilson, "The Past as Present in the Works of August Wilson," our season title reflects on Wilson's profound influence within the realm of African American theatrical expression. In our 10th season, we showcase Wilson's works alongside playwrights Lewis Morrow and Brysen Boyd, continuing the tradition of crafting unapologetic narratives of Black life. Guided by the Williams' dedication to fostering emerging Black talent, our season also highlights the directorial prowess of Black women, further enriching the tapestry of bringing the rich legacy of Black Arts to the stage.
Seven Guitars
Wilson’s Seven Guitars is the 4th in his award-winning Century Cycle. The play delves into the lives of African American musicians in 1940s Pittsburgh. Set against the backdrop of the blues, the play follows the story of Floyd Barton, a talented guitarist striving for fame while facing personal struggles and societal pressures. As Floyd's dreams intertwine with the lives of his friends and lovers, including Vera, his former flame, and Canewell, his loyal friend, themes of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American Dream are explored with poignant depth.
Jawbone Crack Quick
Morrow's compelling narrative delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, cycles of abuse and patriarchy and female empowerment while shedding light on the challenges, social contradictions and triumphs faced by generations of African American families. This emotionally charged play resonates with themes of resilience and unity.
Fences
In Wilson’s 6th play of his “Century Cycle,” Wilson's exploration of love, responsibility, and shattered dreams takes center stage in this timeless classic. Set against the backdrop of the 1950s, "Fences" confronts societal barriers and personal aspirations with poignant honesty.
Family Sideshow
Boyd's gripping work immerses audiences in the trials and triumphs of a family navigating through adversity, addiction, and emotional fractures that puncture the nuclear family. Themes of resilience, love, and hope reverberate through this captivating narrative.