Cast Thoughts of a Colored Man

The Broadway production of 'Thoughts of a Colored Man' features a talented cast, including Dyllón Burnside as Love, Tony nominee Forrest McClendon (The Scottsboro Boys) as Depression, Luke James (Showtime's The Chi) as Passion, Bryan Terrell Clark (Hamilton) as Happiness, Da'Vinchi (Showtime's Black Mafia Family) as Lust, Esau Pritchett (Fox's Prodigal Son) as Wisdom, and Tristan Mack Wilds (HBO's The Wire) as Anger. Bjorn DuPaty (Mlima's Tale) and Garrett Turner (National Black Theatre's Bayano) serve as understudies.

The play is directed by Steve H., who brings the men together to explore their thoughts and emotions about being black men in America. Wilds, in particular, stands out as an athlete turned coach turned angry man, delivering a powerful performance.

One of the most memorable scenes in the production is when the men stand in line to buy high-end sneakers, a beautifully written scene that pokes fun at the high price of athletic footwear and the status it represents. Clark's character clashes with a grocery store worker (McClendon) over economic opportunities and income bracket, but what's striking is how his gay Black character remains an outsider within the group.

The play takes a dramatic turn when one man's sexual orientation is revealed, prompting a comedic reaction from the others. In contrast to another new play, Martyna Majok's 'Sanctuary City,' where the disclosure is staged for shock value, 'Thoughts of a Colored Man' handles the reveal with humor and sensitivity.

Ultimately, 'Thoughts of a Colored Man' is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be black men in America, tackling topics such as identity, sexuality, and social status. With its talented cast and sharp direction by Steve H., this production is not to be missed.

Cast thoughts of a colored man