Splash Hatch on the E Going Down
A vibrant star is rising in the theater world, captivating audiences throughout Chicagoland with his remarkable talents. Artistic Director Tyrone Phillips, alongside Executive Director Neel McNeil and a talented ensemble of directors, managers, and assistants, Definition Theatre, with creativity and innovation, has established itself as a premier theater destination on the south side of Chicago. Together, they have showcased memorable theatrical experiences, exceptional creativity, and robust storytelling, making each performance thought-provoking and educational while enriching the community's cultural landscape. With its objective of establishing a vibrant new theater, an engaged community center, and a creative business incubator in the underserved Woodlawn area, this initiative aims to combat poverty while fostering diversity and expanding opportunities for its residents. Phillips's mission, which celebrates narratives created, inspired by, and intended for people and communities of color, is captivating audiences and ushering in a much-needed fresh perspective. This effort resonates deeply with the transformative developments at the Obama Presidential Center, reflecting a shared commitment to community empowerment and cultural enrichment. With thought-provoking performances such as his newest play, Splash Hatch on the E Going Down, Definition Theatre provides a fresh narrative look into notable African-American productions that shouldn't be overlooked.
Centered around Thyme, a fifteen-year-old Thyme, an expected mother, and an A-student with a thirst for knowledge, Thyme enthralls herself in research on fetal development, pouring over books and online articles as she dreams of a tranquil water birth for her child that starkly contrasts with the chaotic circumstances of her life. Thyme continues searching and becomes increasingly aware of the environmental injustices plaguing her community—high pollution levels from nearby factories, the scarcity of clean drinking water, and the lack of accessible healthcare. Supported by her husband, Malik, and her fiercely loyal best friend, Lena, Thyme navigates the delicate balance between her intellectual pursuits and the harsh realities of her surroundings that plague communities of color. After her friend experiences a catastrophic loss and her husband gets sick from lead poisoning from his job, Thyme questions what it truly means to prepare for a future in a world where systemic racism and inequalities loom large. Splash Hatch on the E Going Down invites the audience to consider what it means to actively prepare for a future in a world where systemic racism and inequalities persist. Kia Corthron's play brilliantly engaged us in an open dialogue and suggested that we all take action to work together to create a more equitable and just society for everyone.
Splash Hatch refers to Thyme's desire to bring new life into the world amidst the soothing embrace of water. It highlights her longing for a serene birthing experience, vibrant intellectual curiosity, and aspiration for a brighter, more hopeful future, and symbolizes her strength and resilience. The phrase "on the E going down" refers to the New York City subway line "E," a divider between different communities, including Thyme's Harlem neighborhood and the wealthier areas of Manhattan, that separates and connects communities, particularly as it relates to the environmental hazards and social inequalities faced by Thyme, the play's protagonist, and her Black community in Harlem— suggesting the downward trajectory of ecological hazards and social disparities that disproportionately affect poorer communities, particularly those of color.
Directed by Chicago-based director, actor, and playwright Cheryl Lynn Bruce, the Chicago premiere of Splash Hatch on the E Going Down is a captivating narrative highlighting African-American struggles within a polarized society. Exploring themes of environmental injustice and poverty and the impact of these issues on communities of color, particularly in Harlem, Bruce brings to life the effects of Corthron's play with poetic vigor. The cast features Jabari Khaliq (Erry), Stetson Pierre (Ollie), Quenna Lené Barrett (Marjorie), an outstanding performance by Rita Wicks (Shaneequa), and an incredible and enthralling performance by Jada Jackson as Thyme. It's essential for the audience to fully grasp the profound impact of this play and how environmental changes, coupled with socioeconomic disparities within communities, stem from the fundamental reality that one group of people often experiences life differently than others. By exploring themes of privilege, access to resources, and systemic inequalities, the play illustrates how these differences shape not only individual experiences but also the overall health and sustainability of the environment. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that these disparities can lead to significant consequences, such as diminished access to clean air and water, and how race plays a key role in representation in decision-making processes or the lack thereof.
I started by saying that Definition Theatre boasts a shining star. However, Splash Hatch on the E Going Down shows that stars can still shine even when nobody sees their light. Splash Hatch on the E Going Down beautifully illustrates that brilliance can endure, even when unseen. Stars of different colors can continue to sparkle, their light barely observable, and make a splash in the world, even while traveling on the E going down.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Definition Theatre
Splash Hatch on the E Going Down
By Kia Corthron
Directed by Cheryl Lynn Bruce
March 14 - April 13, 2025
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