Blood at the Root NYC Reviews and Tickets
Show-Score Member Reviews (34)
See it if Absolutely relevant about the issue that we are having today. Gender identity, racism, freedom of speech..
Don't see it if Don't like the use of the "N" word, the idea of mixed marriages.
See it if You like to hear an intelligent presentation of racial issues that is very nuanced and balanced.
Don't see it if You believe that we have solved our racial issues in this country.
See it if want to experience a powerful, well acted drama about the complex state of race relations and human relationships in America.
Don't see it if You don't want to have to listen carefully or if you need an intermission.
See it if you appreciate solid, intense, intelligent, challenging, theater. Deserves all the high marks it received. The talk back was a brilliant.
Don't see it if You want something entertaining, & just want to laugh. This show is a challenge to all preconceptions about US history and race relations.
See it if You like relevant and relatable theater with smart directing choices that question modern issues
Don't see it if You are a conservative who believes that racism is over or are racist/homophobic in any way
See it if You want to experience a well acted and written show in close confines about an all too relevant issue
Don't see it if Difficult race issues make you uncomfortable
See it if you like funny, thoughtful shows with some singing and dancing through.
Don't see it if you're in the mood for something light and fluffy
See it if you like stories that touch on hot topics in American culture or if you enjoy black theatre.
Don't see it if hip hop theatre is not your style.
Critic Reviews (5)
"'Blood at the Root' is the powerful and moving interpretation of those events, a work that prompts discussion…The individual performances from these young actors are all strongly committed and convincing...When the climax arrives it is thus all the more effective as we have connected with the characters. The group dynamics are equally captivating as friendships and loyalties are challenged, strengthen, or collapse."
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"Every actor is given a moment to shine and they do...A powerful collaborative piece. Director Broadnax makes impressive use of the set to change pace, scene and mood...Playwright Morisseau has written an exquisite play which addresses prejudice...It is not however a piece that preaches at the audience....It shows how we can all have prejudices of different kinds even when we acknowledge this should not exist: it makes you want to be better."
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"Led by powerful, mature performances from a six-strong ensemble, the show highlights the need for engagement in politics at grassroots level...This central theme could be explored even further. Instead, the actors rely a little too much on the tropes of student musical theatre...Misplaced decisions aside, this is authentic, comprehensive and provocative theatre that plays host to a vital, meditative conversation."
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"An ensemble piece in every sense of the word...A moving and enlightening experience…Perhaps the most impressive thing about the show is the subtlety with which it explores the themes. Each character brings a different nuance to the discussion...The cast is extremely strong...The play illustrates the issues it raises, but steers clear of directly offering a solution. Instead, it allows the solution to emerge naturally in the audience's minds as the only possible answer."
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"Dominique Morisseau sets out to teach us about the discrimination that is still consistent in American culture...All six cast members are essential in bringing a further dimension into the crisis of identity. They are powerful and persuasive in their roles where their own views force us to evaluate our own. By fusing a dramatic play with modern physical elements, 'Blood at the Root' is a powerful performance that encourages us to stand up and chant for change."
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