Jillian Ebanks, Breon Arzell, Max Thomas, Tamieka Chavis, and Arlietta Hall. Photo by Teresa Castracane.
“Dance Like There’s Black People Watching” is a Black Excellence Revue and continuation of the 15-year collaboration between The Second City and Woolly Mammoth Theatre. Directed by Rob Wilson, this vibrant, uptempo comedy show features moments of sketch, improv, and audience participation. “Dance Like There’s Black People Watching” is entertaining evening and a good time for all.
…vibrant…thoroughly enjoyable show with lively humor, heart, and an incredibly talented ensemble…
There were several stand out sketches from listing all the super pacs that affected this year’s election (including the “people of Delaware against being interesting” and the “person of Wyoming”) to the psychological games of “Black therapy.” The entire ensemble showcased their impressive comedic talents with a range of accents and great physical comedy, as well as more subdued, deadpan moments. Special attention should be paid to Breon Arzell who, beyond being an incredibly funny member of the ensemble, is also the choreographer of the show which features a heavy element of dance and music. Arlieta Hall also shined as the narrator in “A Christmas Carol” inspired sketch which, while full of humor, also offered a moment of introspection. In addition to humor, the entire show is filled with nuance and emotional underpinnings, emphasizing the final message that “Black people are not a monolith.”
The lighting and set design of Colin K. Bills was gorgeous and detailed. The performers used the levels of the stage in creative ways. The many windows built into the set provided mini-prosceniums through which one or two performers could interject with small moments of lively humor. The pacing of the show was a particular strength. The night flew by in a series of fast-paced sketches that kept your attention and flowed seamlessly during transitions.
A thoroughly enjoyable show with lively humor, heart, and an incredibly talented ensemble, “Dance Like There’s Black People Watching” provides exactly the respite needed in this time, as emphasized in Maria Manuela Goyanes note in the beginning of the program. As a White person seeing this show, I was aware that there were references and deeper cuts that flew over my head. I would definitely recommend this show for anyone and everyone with a love for comedy and talented performers.
“Dance Like There’s Black People Watching” runs through December 22, 2024 at Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 614 D Street, NW Washington, DC 20004. For more information and to purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 202) 393-3939 or go online.
