To Kill a Mockingbird isn’t simply a literary classic; it’s a story that plunges the reader into examining the relationships between Blacks and whites.
The theatrical version can be seen at the Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington St. now through Feb. 21.
The play stems from author Harper Lee’s 1960 tale, which won the Pulitzer Prize the following year. “To Kill a Mockingbird” has many stories woven into its fabric, yet the play follows the trial of a Black man, Tom Robinson, accused of raping a white woman, Mayella Ewell.
Robinson’s lawyer, Atticus Finch, struggles with not only defending what is just and fair, but also with his two nosy and precocious children Scout and Jem.
The story takes place in the South and explores “the schisms that divide us geographically, economically, educationally and socially,” said Janet Allen, artistic director.
I’ve read the book, seen the movie version and now have seen the play of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Every time I’m faced with this time-honored story my appreciation deepens for what Blacks before me faced. For me to even sit amongst all races and watch the play is humbling.
This play is littered with everyday ideals people continue to face. The know-it-all neighbor, the humble and wise old woman who offers insight when you least expect it, or the chronically ill man who’s struggling to make the best of his last days on Earth.
As an adult, “To Kill a Mockingbird” opened my eyes for the first time about the irony of how life continues to evolve yet simultaneously remains the same. It also made me realize how difficult it is to be young (or old) and faced with new challenges that don’t make sense to you.
The setting of the play is during a time when Blacks have made some strides, but segregation and hatred are still all around. Scout and Jem see their world through their child-like eyes but it’s the work of selfish, evil and racist adults that forces them to grow up before their time. They discover how complicated life can be and how skin color is not parallel to equality.
Even today our young children are faced with things no child should see. Adults are either content with the status quo or earnestly attempting to “be the change they wish to see.” Sound like someone you know? Sound like yourself?
We constantly see the ugliness of the human heart, but “To Kill a Mockingbird” shines a light on how small acts of kindness make a difference. There is still much work that needs to be done regarding race relations, but look how far we’ve come.
I strongly recommend families attend this play. The themes in “To Kill a Mockingbird” are a bit strong for younger viewers and the “N” word is used quite a bit. The ideals represented in this play are valid, current, and at best will strike a dialogue about race relations, Black history and the youth.
At a time when our president is African-American yet Blacks continue to face numerous disparities at disproportionate rates, “To Kill a Mockingbird” will show audiences the ills we face and how we can make life better.
“To Kill a Mockingbird” is an excellent play with talented actors. See it for yourself, see it for your family and see it for those before you.
For more information, call (317) 635-5252 or visit www.irtlive.com.
