Lynn Nottage, a talented playwright and the first Black woman to win two Pulitzer Prizes in drama, has a wide range of interests that she explores in her works. Her plays, such as Ruined and Sweat, delve into important social issues and human experiences. However, her play By the Way, Meet Vera Stark, takes a different approach by focusing on the struggles of Black women in Hollywood. Inspired by the real-life experiences of actresses like Theresa Harris, who often played stereotypical roles in Hollywood films, Nottage’s play sheds light on the challenges faced by Black actors in the entertainment industry.
The play follows the story of Vera Stark, a Black actress working as a maid to a famous white actress in 1933. Vera dreams of landing a role in a film that offers more than just stereotypical maid roles. Through a mix of comedy and drama, Nottage explores the complexities of racism in Hollywood and the compromises that Black actors had to make to pursue their careers. The play cleverly critiques the industry while also paying tribute to the talented but often overlooked Black supporting players in Hollywood.
In a recent revival of the play at the Artistic Home, directed by Risha Tenae, the cast delivered powerful performances that brought Nottage’s vision to life. Ashayla Calvin, in the role of Vera Stark, portrayed the character’s journey with depth and authenticity. The chemistry between Calvin and Caitlin Jemison, who played Gloria Mitchell, added a dynamic energy to the production. The play’s exploration of themes such as identity, representation, and the impact of racism resonated with the audience and sparked important conversations about the history of Black actors in Hollywood.
While Vera Stark may not have received the same level of critical acclaim as Nottage’s other works, the play offers a unique and insightful look at the challenges faced by Black women in the entertainment industry. By blending humor with social commentary, Nottage invites audiences to reflect on the legacy of Black actors in Hollywood and the ongoing need for diverse and authentic representation in the media.
Overall, By the Way, Meet Vera Stark is a thought-provoking and engaging play that highlights the talent and resilience of Black actors in the face of systemic racism. Nottage’s masterful storytelling and the stellar performances of the cast make this play a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of race, identity, and representation in the entertainment industry.
