Black And Brown Theatre Allows Audience To Direct Their Newest Show

Black and Brown Theatre is proud to present What Had Happened Was... , a new theatre experience rooted in the idea that everyone in our community has a story to share and that all of our stories are stronger together, which perfectly reinforces Black and Brown Theatre's slogan "We put the unity in opportunity."

The first act consists of prompted questions to the audience to share their stories. As stories are shared, the actors on stage take notes and partake in real time demonstrations of the moments and the people that the audience mentions. Then an intermission is taken in which audiences can socialize, grab a drink from the bar, or spy on the actors, who remain on stage to prepare a sketch outline of a world premiere play based on the audience's suggestions. When the intermission is over, the audience returns to their seats and watches a live, one-act play based on their suggestions, performed by actors from Black and Brown Theatre.

The format was inspired by Meggan Gomez, theatre conservatory director at Working Classrooms in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Black and Brown Theatre met with Gomez following her visit to their production of Scarlet Letter this past spring and spoke with her about adapting the format to Black and Brown Theatre. Black and Brown Theatre worked under Gomez' blessing to adapt this format specifically for Detroit audiences.

Black and Brown Theatre advisory board member and What Had Happened Was... performer Amber Price says, "What Had Happened Was... is Black and Brown people literally writing their own narratives, and inviting others along on the journey. It's a theatrical act of inclusivity."

What Had Happened was performs Friday November 9th and Saturday November 10th at Planet Ant's Ant Hall: 2320 Caniff St, Hamtramck. Both performances start at 8pm with doors opening at 7:30pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: www.BlackandBrownTheatre.org or follow Black and Brown Theatre on social media: @BandBTheatre.