Americans have come a long way in terms of diversity and discrimination. But in light of the recent movement for a high school in Georgia to desegregate their prom, we are reminded that despite it being the 21st century, discrimination still exists in America. Eastern Michigan University professor and director Wallace Bridges brings forth such issues in performances of “The Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White,” originally written by Alice Childress, this month on campus.
“Wedding Band” is set in 1918 in South Carolina, and follows Julia and Herman, who face scrutiny because they are an interracial couple. When they are unable to escape to the north, where interracial marriage is legal, they are faced with many challenges.
Courtney Smith, an EMU senior comprehensive communication and theatre arts and sociology double major, plays the character of Fanny. She agreed this play has a great impact on society.
“‘Wedding Band’ highlights this reality and forces us to sit down and have those conversations,” Smith said. “Alice Childress did a really good job of not only shedding light on injustices among different races, but how there can be race-on-race discrimination.”
“Wedding Band” was first produced at the University of Michigan in 1966, but many theaters at the time refused to put on the play because of its controversial subject. Interracial marriage is legal today but the fight for equality continues.
Sidney Lee, a junior electronic media and film major who plays Lula Green, said, “This play shows how far we’ve come when it comes to interracial marriage. I am blessed that it is different now.”
The cast and crew have worked tirelessly on this production and hope to spread this message to the EMU community and beyond.
“People don’t know what they’re missing,” said public relations senior Aaron D’Amico, who plays The Bell Man.“Everyone in the show is really good, has worked really hard and we would appreciate your support.”
The remaining performances of “Wedding Band” will be at the Sponberg Theatre on April 7 and 14 at 2 p.m., April 11 at 10 p.m. and April 12-13 at 7 p.m. The show has some mature content and language and is meant for mature audiences.
