The Center for International Theatre Development (CITD) presented a conversation: Proclaiming Presence from the Washington Stage livestreaming on the global, commons-based, peer-produced HowlRound TV network on Monday 8 November 2021.
Blair Ruble’s recently published Proclaiming Presence from the Washington Stage explores how theatre offered a path to recognition for African Americans, Roman Catholic clerics, regional theatre enthusiasts, and community activists throughout much of the twentieth century. Due to Washington’s unique political status before the mid-1970s, the city’s lack of local government or political life stifled political outlets for grievance. Cultural expression—especially in the theatre—frequently emerged as a surrogate for political action. The result has been a local urban culture that retains a bent towards resistance.
Author Blair Ruble was joined in conversation by Georgetown history professor Maurice Jackson and Georgetown University dean Soyica Diggs.
Howard Shalwitz, associate director of the Center for International Theatre Development (CITD) and artistic director emeritus at Washington’s Woolly Mammoth, moderated this 50-minute conversation.
Comments
The article is just the start of the conversation—we want to know what you think about this subject, too! HowlRound is a space for knowledge-sharing, and we welcome spirited, thoughtful, and on-topic dialogue. Find our full comments policy here