To put it simply, if there is one thing I enjoy immensely, it is a good theatre production. Living in London there is always one to go and see – whether it be at the West End or at Shakespeare’s Globe, London is a city renowned theatrically for its ever virtuous stage actors and actresses and fantastic shows. This February half term, I had the great opportunity to go back to the Theatre Royal Stratford East and see a spectacular musical production: The Bubbly Black Girl sheds her Chameleon Skin – a musical by Kirsten Childs.
The play begins in Los Angeles, California with our main character Viveca – a young girl from a middle class family, growing up in a time of racial tension and injustice; who has a dream that she will one day become a dancer. During her childhood in LA, Viveca’s attention is bought to four young black girls who were killed in a bomb attack by the Ku Klux Klan in a church in Alabama – 1963. This shocking and disturbing event plagues the mind of young Viveca leading her to think that this may happen to her as well because of the mere colour of her skin. Viveca encloses herself in a little bubble and being born into a middle class family decides that she will blend in and try to be “white”.
However, what seems to be a constant theme throughout the play is how young black girls can become confused and not know themselves; how these girls mask who they really are to be accepted and to fit in with the beauty standards that our society have set for them. Throughout the play Viveca constantly worries about her hair – changing its length, texture, making it straighter etc. The changing of physical appearance and not being completely content with what you were born with was an evident and ongoing theme. In 2016, a ban on afros was made in a South African school because natural black hair seemed intimidating and an outward show of aggression. Additonally, this play specifically highlights the importance of cultural appearance; that in fact all hair types are beautiful and must be appreciated.
Furthermore, a funny and congenial nature was pursued relentlessly throughout the great performance. With the many witty lines and humorous moments, there was always a smile around the corner when looking up ahead at the myriad of colours given off by the vivid costumes and stage decor.
“I chose to write a story of hope and humour about the ridiculousness of racism and intolerance.” stated Kirsten Childs the writer of the play. “Now, as it was back then allowing anger to consume you is self-defeating and unproductive.”
Although the performance covered many aspects of the darker part of society in the 60s and 70s, it was also a reminder that smiling, having fun and passing on love instead of hatred is always the way to go. This beautiful message is reflected in Viveca’s passion for dancing and her ability to put aside hatred and chase what makes her happy instead. The “Bubbly” Black Girl Sheds her Chameleon Skin left an aura of feeling good lingering in the audience that day. A great way to spend some time – after work or on a Saturday afternoon, have your choice!
“It was lively and entertaining – a story that many black kids can relate to.” – Stephen (a member of the audience).
Every person that has seen the play has been able to extract something of value out of it: be it the relatability or the cheerful vibes that it left them with. This phenomenal play that goes along with the messages of self-love and body confidence that have dispersed across social media and in our society, is a complete must-see and right outside the doorsteps of many East and North-East London residents!
Marissa Lay
