This weekend, Black Anthology, an annual play that celebrates black culture, invites its audience to accompany the cast through a medley of decisions faced by blacks in the music industry. The title, “Re/frain: A Cautionary Tale,” plays on a dual meaning of the musical idea of refrain, combined with the more figurative idea of refraining and using caution while making rash decisions.

LeMar Moore, a senior and the director of this year’s show, has never acted in Black Anthology (BA), but he recognizes the need to dispel the myth that it is a show that only black people can appreciate.

“It is a cultural show, but when you have the words ‘Black Anthology,’ people think that [the show] is two hours of complaining about racism and oppression. In reality, it is a celebration of culture, just like any other show,” he said.

Junior Valerie Wade, assistant director for the play, agreed. “Washington University does not appreciate BA like it should. People are much more enthusiastic for other cultural shows, and they are more nonchalant about this one. The other shows are great, but there is less of an interest in Black Anthology.” She continued, “The show is not always preachy, but it is something fun that is part of black American life.”

Members of BA have tried to increase attendance for this year’s BA through increased publicity, such as by using Facebook and by going into the University community to promote the show.

Moore said that there has also been discussion of making BA more of a variety show.

“People might be turned off that we are a full-length show that does not have any song and dance,” he said.

Essentially, though, Moore said that the show includes something for everyone and that there is at least one moment that will emotionally move each audience member. He said that the script is extremely layered, which he appreciates because it allows for every audience member to discern his/her own themes. However, it is a fact that causes Moore some anxiety concerning the way that the audience will perceive it.

“If [the audience] does not pay close attention, [they] can miss important themes of the show,” he said.

Though he is leaving it to the audience to discern their own themes, which Moore says is essential when presenting a play, he says that there is a central idea that everyone can appreciate.

“The basic message of the play is being who you are. There is a storytelling element, and the central theme is to tell your own story,” he said.

Nicholas Okoro, a junior in this year’s show, said that acting in the play has encouraged him to have a more open mindset about why people make certain decisions.

“[BA] makes me see humanity in all people. I see a different character’s life and problems, and I see that this person may have a reason. There is a definite cause behind every action. BA has made me consider that more,” he said.

Most of all, though, he wants the play to encourage discussion so that cultural experiences can be shared.

“This show will definitely raise questions. As a campus that promotes diversity, [BA] sparks dialogue.”

The play will be held at 8 p.m tonight, and Saturday, Feb. 3 in Edison Theater.

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