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A how-to guide for theatermakers who want freedom from white supremacy in their creative practices
The Antiracist Theatre offers readers the tools and foundational philosophy to create their own antiracist theatre ethos and delve into its three core principles: harm reduction, harm prevention, and relationship repair.
Nicole Brewer, faculty at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale and the originator of the Antiracist Theatre model, guides readers through self-reflection exercises designed to strengthen awareness of their own position, power, and privilege and uproot their racist practices. Brewer provides definitions of oft-used, but rarely defined terms like “accountability,” “racism,” and “abuse.” She welcomes BIPOC readers and lovingly and playfully calls in white theatermakers as she outlines methods to interrupt patterns of abuse.
All who believe the way forward for theatre is antiracist and anti-oppressive are welcome. We each have a role to play. Join us in liberating the stage, the classroom, and the performing arts.
"An important and necessary book."
—Lynn Nottage, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright
"An essential resource for white allies working as theater artists and arts administrators. A book that offers not only practical tools and thoughtful definitions but meaningful questions for reflection that encourage continual growth."
—Bevin Ross, Executive Director of the Drama League
"This book is equal parts inspiration, illumination, guidance, and accountability. THE workbook for the healing and survival of our industry."
—Claire Warden, Director of Advanced Training at Intimacy Directors and Coordinators
"A powerful invitation to enter a very deep and personal space, inspiring greater commitment to innovative creative work."
—Michele Shay, Tony-nominated actress, director, and professor of theatre practice in acting, USC School of Dramatic Arts
"A landmark of radical generosity—a work that dares to reimagine the stage as a site of healing, accountability, and profound human connection. This is the book the field has been waiting for: urgent, luminous, and transformative."
—Valerie Curtis-Newton, Artistic Director of the Hansberry Project and professor of directing at University of Washington
An Invitation To Begin
I: Honesty
Implications & Impact of Racist Theatrical Processes
Honesty
Breath
Polarity
Disrupting the Culture
DEI ≠ Anti-Racism: Correcting a Misleading Narrative
Liberated Communication
The Era We Build: Defining and Sustaining Anti-Racist Theatre
II: Healing
The individual and Systemic
Redefining Values & Embracing Fluid Structures
Anti-Racist Theatre Ethos
Guiding Principles
Belonging
Relinquishing Resentment
Centering on Purpose
Normalizing Access Needs
Collaborative Space
III: Hope
A liberated Industry
Measuring Progress
Nourishing Collaborative Practice
Reimagined Systems & Infrastructure
IV: Humility
The Necessity of Grace
Love and Liberation