Black Lives, Black Words is an artistic movement that began in Chicago but has since had events in two continents, three countries, and seven cities. Producer and playwright Reginald Edmund began this venture with Executive Producer Simeilia Hodge-Dallaway in 2015, prompting playwrights and spoken word artists to respond to the question “do black lives matter?”
The resounding response: not only do black lives matter but black art does too. As Edmund has said “There isn’t anything particularly revolutionary about what ‘Black Lives, Black Words’ is doing in and of itself, it’s the fact that we are doing what so many organizations and institutions that have scammed off of the diversity and inclusion discussion, and that have the resources should be doing or failing to do, which is what makes us a revolutionary theatrical endeavor. Giving artists of color actual control over their own narratives, and giving the community voice, access, and space to be heard, as well as bridging communities with a shared global dialogue.”
There are a few events to look out for if you’re trying to catch a BLBW event this August. Starting August 14th at 7:30pm they are partnering with Collaboraction to host the “Our America Party.” Part of a greater “Our America” series, this project asked local people of color, LGBTQ+ and female playwrights and directors to speak on the state American Dream. Artists featured include Arti Ishak, Rohina Malik (Yasmina’s Necklace can be seen at the Goodman later this year), Dana Lynn Formby, Tanuja Jagernauth, and many more.
On August 21st, Black Lives Black Words is hosting a TEDTalks inspired speaker series called THE ARTIST SPEAKS, where legends such as prominent director Ron OJ Parson, and Malik Gillani, Artistic Director of Silk Road Rising, will speak to the history and state of the arts in America, and what lies in the future.
These events culminate in the third Black Lives, Black Words Event, this year to be held at Victory Gardens Theater August 22nd at 7:30pm. What’s different about this year? Every piece is written, produced, and directed by black women and femmes. Playwrights include Loy Webb, Nambi Kelly, Adia Alli, and directors include Nicole Michelle Haskins and BLBW’s Executive Director, Simeilia Hodge-Dallaway.
See what participating artists have to say about Black Lives Black Words this year:
“BLBW is an innovative, hard-hitting, internationally scoped project that focuses on the truth telling of the Black narrative in this country and beyond. I am so thrilled to have been asked to contribute a piece on something I am very passionate about, and to be able to witness the talents of all the other artists involved. I am particularly thrilled that all of the pieces in this installment are directed and written by women. Reggie Edmund is certainly doing his part to be a game-changer in the field of producing. I am humbled and grateful to be a part.” – Nambi Kelley (Playwright, Actor)
“I had the pleasure of covering BLBW’s for Newcity when it first started. It was a rough and raw idea at that point, finally coming to fruition. Since then it has turned into a refined movement that is touching lives both in the states and abroad. Seeing this movements growth first hand, shows the impact that artist truly committed to the community can have and you don’t need huge institutions behind you to be a force. And now that the movement is branching out giving women a voice, and addressing our current political climate, just shows that this movement that Reggie and Sim have helmed, isn’t just talking about change like most folks do. They are creating it from the ground up. And I am sincerely grateful and honored to lend my artistry to further their cause.” – Loy Webb (Playwright, Critic)
Tickets are an accessible $10-13 for events, check out http://www.blacklivesblackwords.org for more information!