St. Car Named Desire

When I found out that the Hattilo Theatre was an African American theatre, I thought that it was very interesting that they were performing A Street Car Named Desire. When I think about A Street Car Named Desire, I automatically think of Marlo Brandon screaming from the top of his lungs, “Stella”. I have never really thought about African Americans portraying the characters of Blanche, Stella, and Stanley. From my personal experience, I have performed in plays where African Americans have played a role meant for Caucasians. In the past, it did not matter because it just showed the quality of the actors’ talent and performance. For the actors of the Hattillo Theatre, it was just the same.

Sitting in the cozy little theatre, I became a slightly nervous about how the play would go. The theatre was so small and this play has very serious issues. So, no matter how far back you sat, you felt like you were right in the middle of all the action. Every character was very believable with his portrayal of character. It was very impressive to Ekundayo Bandele transform into the character of Stanley. I remember him coming out and talking to the audience before the show had begun. I took notice of his voice and mannerisms and then saw him as Stanley, and everything was changed. He provided the perfect voice for the character of Stanley. Out of the three main characters, I thought Stanley was performed the best.

A Street Car Named Desire is such an intense play. When I sit and watch be performed or even read it, I become very nervous because of Stanley and Blanch. You never know when either of them are about to lose it or break down. Stanley’s anger fills a room and his voice sends shivers up your spine. As you watch Blanche, you become so concerned for her because you are so unsure of who she is and what she is hiding. Then you become to almost pity her because you realize she is so lost. This may be an outlet to an audience member. Some may find a connection to Blanche because they may be just as lost in the world as she is. Speaking of pity, we all can sympathize for Stella. Such a kind hearted and fragile character, we hate to see her live in this world. We hate to see her stay with Stanley just because she has his child.

This deep and emotional play takes us to a two room apartment in New Orleans. We are introduced to the lives of Stanley and Stella, and Stella’s sister Blanche. We are provided with many emotions throughout the play. The room is filled with our laughter because of Stanley’s sarcasm and Blanche’s crazy stories. We are frightened by Stanley’s anger and Stella’s well being. Also, the reality of who Blanche really is. We are sympathize for the lives of each of these hopeless characters.