As a Black actor in New York City, I believe it’s not just an opportunity but a responsibility to support and celebrate the work of fellow Black artists. This week, I had the privilege of witnessing “Blood Work” at Chelsea Factory, a production in partnership with the National Black Theatre. Earlier this year, I wanted to dedicate time to supporting more works in the arts. Everyone prioritizes Broadway, but there are countless shows, programs, and opportunities that need to be highlighted. When I was extended the opportunity to see “Blood Work” it was an automatic yes.
What is “Blood Work”?
“Blood Work,” written by Kristen Adele Calhoun and directed by Tiffany Nichole Greene, tells the story of Neisha, a pregnant woman whose hospital visit turns into an Afro-futuristic journey through generations. The play beautifully explores themes of healing, generational trauma, and the strength of Black women across time.
What struck me most was how the story touched on the profound impact of healing trauma for future generations. As I watched Neisha’s journey unfold, I couldn’t help but reflect on my family’s history and the importance of addressing our collective and individual traumas. It’s a powerful reminder that our healing doesn’t just affect us – it ripples through time, shaping the experiences of those who come after us.
The Magic of the Theatre
Seeing an all-Black cast on stage was nothing short of magical. Each actor brought depth, nuance, and raw emotion to their roles, creating a beautiful exploration of Black experiences that felt unique and universally relatable. From Christiana Clark’s powerful presence to the nuanced performances of Kalyne Coleman and Ashley Lalonde, the talent on display was awe-inspiring. There was music, there were tears, there was laughter, and I appreciated that each actor took on multiple characters.
Sitting in the audience, surrounded by fellow theater-goers of all backgrounds, I was reminded why representation matters so much. For young Black actors and artists in the audience, seeing themselves reflected on stage in complex, fully realized roles can be life-changing. It reinforces the idea that our stories are worthy of being told, that our experiences are valid, and that there’s room for us in every aspect of the arts.
After the show, they invited us to share our thoughts and feedback on the performance. It felt so community-driven, and we could actually discuss what stood out to us and what themes we wanted Kristen to continue elaborating on. It was workshopable, and really, we never get to see productions in PRODUCTION.
Image: Marcus Middleton
Why This Matters
Being a Black artist in NYC comes with its challenges, but productions like “Blood Work” remind me why we persist. We create to heal, challenge, celebrate, and pave the way for future generations. Every time we support Black art, whether buying a ticket, sharing a post, or creating our own work, we contribute to a richer, more diverse cultural landscape.
To my fellow Black artists: keep creating, keep supporting, keep showing up. Your presence matters. Your voice matters. And to everyone else: seek out these stories, these performances, these experiences. Art has the power to bridge divides, foster understanding, and inspire change.
“Blood Work” ran at Chelsea Factory for a short time until June 30, 2024. If you have the chance, I highly recommend checking out the National Black Theatre and continuing to support the artisans who come through its doors.
Let’s continue to uplift and celebrate Black voices in the arts. After all, our stories are not just our own – they’re a vital part of the collective human experience.
