We are absolutely loving all of the Black actors making their way to/back to the stage this season. Some new additions to that list include Tessa Thompson, known for her role in the movie “Dear White People” & “Selma.” Also, Mahershala Ali of “House of Cards” fame. Ali is most known for his work on-screen, but he’s appeared in a few stage shows including A Doll’s House and The Great White Hope. These two are part of the full cast that has been announced for the play Smart People by Lydia Diamond. It is set to play at Second Stage Theatre beginning January 26, 2016 with a February 11 opening.
The show will be directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon (A Raisin In The Sun, The Wiz Live!) and is billed as:
The quest for love, achievement and identity is universal, but what role does race play in the story of our lives? On the eve of Obama’s first election, four Harvard intellectuals find themselves entangled in a complex web of social and sexual politics in this provocative and funny new play by Lydia R. Diamond.
The four person cast is rounded out with Joshua Jackson & Anne Son.The creative team includes scenic design by Riccardo Hernandez, costume design by Paul Tazewell, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, lighting design by Jason Lyons, and projection design by Zach Borovay.
Season subscriptions are currently available through 2ST.com or by calling the box office at (212) 246-4422. With all the great theatre that Second Stage has been delivering, this might not be a bad idea.
