How to Learn About Jamaican Theatre

The island of Jamaica has a sophisticated and prolific theatre scene. Jamaica has produced many wonderful thespians, playwrights and theatres. The Jamaican public considers the theatre a vital part of their community and social life, attending new and revived plays with anticipation and excitement. Cultural enthusiasts will be glad to discover and learn about Jamaican theatre and its diverse offerings.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Visit the magnificent Ward Theatre in downtown Kingston. The Ward is the largest theatre in the Caribbean and seats 900 people. It was built in 1912 after being commissioned by Colonel C. J. Ward. The Colonel chose the Architects of the Ward after sponsoring a nation wide competition to
   find the best design for the theatre.
2. Read the plays of Jamaican playwright Trevor Rhone. Rhone's works display a keen interest in the human condition and the way how society's mores affect ones morality. His plays Smile Orange and Old Story Time have been staged in several countries. Rhone is also an actor and director.
3. Attend the National pantomime. This annual play which begins every year the day after Christmas is a Jamaican treasure. It has been staged at the Ward Theatre for more than six decades. The pantomime features fairy tale themes that mirror Jamaica's current events. The story is filled with songs, comedy, and skilled choreography. The sets are majestic and the costumes are colorful and elaborate.
4. Study the history of Jamaican theatre. Plays have been popular on the island since about 1682. Traveling Shakespearean companies, local Drama troupes, along with French and Jewish theatrical groups were all well attended. Even entire American theatre companies migrated to Jamaica during the Revolutionary War.
5. Watch the many talented Jamaican actors who spend their careers performing in theatre in Jamaica and abroad. Laugh with Comedian Oliver Samuels and cry with the dramatic actress Honor Ford-Smith. Many Jamaican theatrical performances are now archived on DVD.

Tips & Warnings

• Rent the movie Smile Orange that features many Jamaican stage actors.