How I Learned What I Learned at the Seattle Rep: A Hilarious Journey (with Minimal Tears)
Let's face it, folks, the title of this play is a mouthful. How I Learned What I Learned (And How What I Learned Has Led Me to Places I've Wanted to Go. That I Have Sometimes Gone Unwillingly is the Crucible in Which Many a Work of Art Has Been Fired). Imagine trying to squeeze that onto a movie poster. Spoiler Alert: It wouldn't fit.
Anyway, I ventured down to the Seattle Rep expecting a light and fluffy comedy, maybe something about a talking dog who runs for mayor (hey, a guy can dream). But what I got was an epic one-man show by the phenomenal Steven Anthony Jones, channeling the legendary playwright August Wilson.
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| How I Learned What I Learned Seattle Rep |
From Humble Beginnings to Hilarious Hardships
Jones, our fearless leader on stage, took us on a whirlwind tour of Wilson's life. We learned about his childhood in Pittsburgh's Hill District, his struggles with racism, and his discovery of the power of storytelling. Now, don't worry, it wasn't all doom and gloom. Jones had us cracking up with his spot-on impersonations of Wilson's friends and family. There was this one character, Aunt Ester, who dispensed wisdom with a side of sass that would make Yoda blush.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
The Importance of Libraries (and Avoiding Librarian Stereotypes)
Yes, libraries! Who knew these hallowed halls of knowledge could be so darn inspiring? Apparently, young August spent a lot of time there, soaking up the works of literary giants. Let's just say his experience was a far cry from the stereotype of a shushing librarian with a hair bun so tight it could deflect bullets.
The Crucible of Creativity (or How Struggle Makes Great Art)
The play went deep too, exploring the challenges Wilson faced as a Black artist in America. The term "crucible" got thrown around a lot, which basically means a situation that tests your strength. Let me tell you, Wilson's journey wasn't a walk in the park. But guess what? Those struggles ended up fueling his incredible talent and giving us a treasure trove of plays.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
So, Did I Learn Anything? (Besides the Importance of a Good Laugh?)
Absolutely! How I Learned What I Learned reminded me of the power of perseverance, the importance of finding inspiration in unexpected places (libraries!), and the beauty of using your voice to tell your story. Plus, it turns out laughter is a pretty good coping mechanism for life's little (and sometimes big) challenges.
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How To Embrace Your Inner Playwright: FAQ
1. How to channel your inner August Wilson? Start by finding your own source of inspiration. Maybe it's a library, a quirky neighbor, or even a talking dog (hey, I never said it was impossible).
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
2. How to deal with life's crucibles? A good sense of humor goes a long way. Plus, channeling those struggles into creative pursuits can be pretty darn therapeutic.
3. How to write a play? Start small! Write a funny scene about your morning commute or a dramatic monologue about the perils of burnt toast.
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
4. How to find a theatre to perform my play? Baby steps, my friend! Maybe start by reading it to your pet goldfish (they're surprisingly good listeners).
5. How to avoid being shushed by a librarian? Keep the goldfish chatter to a minimum, and remember, libraries are for learning, not stand-up routines (although a well-placed joke never hurts).
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