Trouble in Mind

<p><span style=color: rgba(26 25 25 1)>A talented and experienced Black actress has been cast in </span><em style=color: rgba(26 25 25 1)>Chaos in Belleville</em><span style=color: rgba(26 25 25 1)> an anti-lynching play set to open on Broadway. She's paid her dues throughout the years playing stereotypical supporting roles in second-rate shows and is ready for her star turn. </span><em style=color: rgba(26 25 25 1)>Chaos in Belleville</em><span style=color: rgba(26 25 25 1)> written by a white playwright might not be quite as enlightened a piece as she's been hoping for - but that doesn't mean it won't sell out. And selling out is the question at the heart of Alice Childress's comedy-drama. A cast of multigenerational Black actors rehearse under the purview of a white director and stage manager and as the rehearsal process unfolds theatre conventions and racial politics collide resulting in a surprisingly funny yet deeply piercing look at the entertainment industry.</span></p>