Artistic Vision and Thematic Approach
“Dutchman” by Amiri Baraka is a play that focuses on issues associated with racism, power, and identity. The play is relevant in today’s world, where several protests and struggles to end systemic racism are being witnessed in the US. Hence, I would approach the issue thoughtfully and tactically based on these provisions. Rather than relying solely on the actual violence depicted in the play, I would emphasize the visceral and mental malice present in the play, using light, sound, and staging to create tension. Working closely with the actors will also ensure that evil is portrayed sensibly without victimizing potential audiences.
Set Design, Lighting, and Staging
My production of “Dutchman” will be timely and moderate, emphasizing the work’s raw tendencies and power. My sets would be simple, with only a few tram seats and minimal props, and the lighting and sound plans would be dynamic and impressive. As Maya (2020) posits, the overall style will be naturalistic but with a heightened sense of drama that reflects the play’s violent and provocative nature.
The tram itself is a significant image in the play, addressing both the confined space the characters are trapped in and the pictorial journey they undertake (Baraka, 1979). The apple image of the white woman is even more critical, overcoming the seduction and deception at the heart of the play. The presentation room would be a black box theater with seating on three sides to provide a more intimate and vibrant experience. At the same time, the set would consist of tram seats arranged in a semicircle with some additional props such as a subway map and a trash can. The lighting will be low and dim, with splashes to highlight key moments in the piece (Maya, 2020).
Dressings will be contemporary and sensible, reflecting the character and foundation of the characters and their personalities. Clay will be wearing casual streetwear, while Lula will be wearing something more fashionable and provocative. For Props, we would need tram tickets, documents, and an apple, which will be a prop that requires gentleness and full attention.
Casting, Audience, and Intended Impact
For the role of Clay, I would design an actor who is strong and can convey feelings of anger, frustration, and weakness. Someone like John Boyega, who has shown he can play complex and nuanced characters, would make a solid partner for this role. My artistic intent is to create flashy, provocative, and ticklish “Dutchman” productions. Hence, I may need to provoke the audience to confront uncomfortable insights about race and power in America and engage meaningfully with the play’s themes and ideas.
I must also showcase Baraka’s compositions’ excellence and strength, and demonstrate the skill of the artists and architects involved in their creation. My target audience for this production is diverse and broad, reflecting the theme and message of the work. I have to go to the two theatergoers who know Baraka’s work and to the people who might find him interesting.
Similarly, I would appeal to a younger and more diverse audience, including stuntmen and locals who are passionate about exploring issues of race, power, and identity. I want my “Dutchman” production to impact its audience in a significant and lasting way and challenge their assumptions and beliefs. It will also aim to get them to think about the issues raised in the play and seek to overcome the social betrayals that continue to plague their society.
References
Baraka, A. (1979). Dutchman. United States: Audio-Visuelt Centrum A/S.
Maya, P. (2020). In two renditions, ‘Dutchman’ speaks to the moment. The New York Times – Breaking News, US News, World News and Videos. Web.