Director Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu Revives Chadwick Boseman's Play Deep Azure in London
In a heartfelt tribute to the late actor Chadwick Boseman, director Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu has brought Boseman's play Deep Azure back to the stage at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse in London. This revival not only honors Boseman's memory but also underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Black artistic work on a global scale.
Honoring a Multifaceted Legacy
Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in August 2020 at the age of 43, was widely celebrated for his iconic roles in blockbuster films such as Black Panther and Get on Up. However, his talents extended beyond acting; he was also a passionate writer and director, with his works delving deeply into the Black American experience. His commitment to social justice was evident when he joined over 300 Black artists in signing a letter demanding the US film industry cut ties with police and invest more in Black communities.
Fynn-Aiduenu, a south London native who attended the same state comprehensive school as the journalist, was inspired by Boseman's lyrical prowess and dedication to high-level theatre. "As Black artists, I really believe in revivals of Black work where they're necessary and needed," Fynn-Aiduenu stated, emphasizing the cultural significance of this production.
The Story Behind Deep Azure
Deep Azure, written by Boseman in 2005, was inspired by the tragic death of his friend Prince Jones, a fellow student at Howard University who was killed by police in Virginia in 2000. The play follows Azure, a young Black woman grappling with the loss of her fiance, Deep, at the hands of a police officer. It premiered at the Chernin Center for the Arts in Chicago and blends hip-hop, Jacobean verse, and choreographed movement to create a powerful narrative.
Fynn-Aiduenu was drawn to the play's emotional depth and applied his distinctive directorial style, which integrates music, text, and movement. His previous work, Sweet Like Chocolate Boy, explored Black British identity, and he sees Deep Azure as a play with music rather than a traditional musical, though it has been compared to Hamilton in spirit.
Ensuring Authenticity and Connection
Reviving Deep Azure came with challenges, particularly in maintaining the authenticity of the dialogue, which is primarily in African American Vernacular English. The Boseman family, including his widow Simone and brothers Kevin and Derrick, expressed concerns about how the play would translate for a London audience. Fynn-Aiduenu assured them of his commitment to accuracy, scouring the country for Black American actors and ensuring cultural fidelity.
The production features one-third American cast members, including associate director Marley-Rose Liburd from Brooklyn, and actor Jayden Elijah, who traveled to Washington DC to study speech patterns. Additionally, Howard University students visited London for workshops, fostering a connection between Black British and Black American diasporas. "This play was a really beautiful opportunity to have a connection between the Black British and Black American diaspora," Fynn-Aiduenu remarked.
Exploring Grief and Global Themes
At its core, Deep Azure is a meditation on grief and loss, reflecting broader themes of state violence and community resilience. The play's hip-hop soundtrack and vibrant performances contrast with its sobering exploration of internal struggles, such as disordered eating and enduring sorrow. Fynn-Aiduenu, who lost his own father, found personal resonance in the work, aiming to highlight the transformative nature of Black grief.
He noted that audiences have drawn connections to contemporary issues like US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), but emphasized that the play focuses on the aftermath of trauma. A poignant moment in the revival was bringing together the Boseman and Jones families for the first time, underscoring the play's emotional impact.
Looking Ahead and Sustaining Black Arts
Despite funding challenges in Black arts, exemplified by Congo Square Theatre Company's struggles, Fynn-Aiduenu remains dedicated to creating and sharing communal stories. He plans to take Deep Azure to the US, potentially to Chicago or Anderson, South Carolina, Boseman's hometown. "It is incredibly important that we as a diaspora tell each other's stories," he asserted, advocating for continued investment in Black cultural narratives.
The revival of Deep Azure serves as a powerful reminder of Chadwick Boseman's artistic legacy and the vital role of Black theatre in global culture. By honoring his work, Fynn-Aiduenu not only pays tribute to a beloved figure but also champions the broader spectrum of Black experiences, ensuring that these stories receive the audience they deserve.
