watch this play.
Not only was this particular performance at the Bushnell captivating, it was beyond educational. Like I previously stated, I had never learned about Melba's story, so consequently, I was unaware to the extreme lengths she went through to to gain educational equality for herself, and her peers. Perhaps what I liked most about the play was that it portrayed Melba during her younger years, and during her teenage life. I think that this detail truly makes an impact on the audience, as now they're able to see what extreme circumstances she dealt with at such a young age, and continued to cope with as she grew up.
To be honest, I was in complete shock when I learned about some of the horrors that she went through. I could not fathom that one person who had acid thrown in her face, who was repeatedly beat up at school, and who was threatened over the phone at home continued to return to a school that did not want her in order to change history for those that shared her race. Even though the play portrayed her at times not wanting to continue her education at her high school, it was inspiring to see a character based on a real person who is dedicated to gaining equal rights.
In addition, I think the timing of when we saw the play had a big impact on me. I found that the subject matter of the play was very connected to many current events around the world. Many people in society continue to fight for equal rights, whether it is gay rights, gender rights, religious freedom, or simply freedom of speech. That being said, even though Melba fought for her educational rights in the 1950s through the 1960s, the play can be related to many social issues that people face to this day. This is a another reason why I believe everyone should educate themselves pertaining to Melba's story, challenges, and her eventual overcoming of those said difficulties.
Why I also like this play is because it showed me how far society has come as a whole. This play made me recognize how much society has developed as far as attitudes towards other's races. While we still have a long way to come, this performance made me recognize how thankful I am to live in a community where many are excepted for who they are. If people were to watch this play or at least read about Melba's story and struggles, I believe we can come even further in accepting one another.
I am glad that I had the opportunity to learn about such a strong woman, who went to extreme lengths for all to have access to such a basic right as education. Because of warriors like Melba, society has flourished and overcome huge obstacles.
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