Tales from a Halfrican-American growing up Mulatto.
With sock puppets!
What does it mean to be black?
Is it the shade of your skin? The kink of your hair? Is it learned
What is its language, both in the body and on the tongue?
written and performed by Damaris Webb,
directed by Debra Disbrow, dramaturgy by Ashley Hughes
“A look at race in a way that’s open hearted and even handed…(Webb) proves to be a highly likable performer”
-The Oregonian
“…delightful…”
-The Willamette Week
“(The Box Marked Black) inspires joy, pride, and wonder in our America. Webb can hold the audience close with just a whisper
…this is a new local artist to watch”
– Portland Theater Scene
“Yes, I knew the issue of diversity was important, but not till Damaris Webb in The Box Marked Black did diversity, dance, sing, do a puppet show–and winningly speak from, and to, the heart.”
– Michael Wolk, Executive Director, All For One Theater Festival NYC
“Damaris Webb is a truly integrated contemporary artist and The Box Marked Black is an important work in the evolving dialogue of race in this country. Both the subject matter and the artistry appeal to and bring together a wildly diverse audience through laughter and humble admission of raw truths. As a believer in the power of art to build bridges and heal communities, I highly recommend this work to people of all age and color.”
– Mizu Desierto, Co-Founder and Artistic Director, The 1Festival/Water in The Dessert
“The Box Marked Black is educational theatre at its best. That is to say, it is good theatre that has the added advantage of being educational. With theatrical sensibility as a creator and versatility as a performer, Damaris Webb crafts moments that range from touching to zany. At once personal and historical, The Box Marked Black offers a unique perspective, teaching you things you might not learn elsewhere, while making you think with your heart as well as your mind.”
– Cynthia Ward, Educational Director, Boulder International Fringe Festival
photo credits: Laurie Anne Lynch