#Charlottesville is a fast-paced exploration of the Unite the Right rally of 2017 in Charlottesville and Priyanka Shetty’s own experience of being a woman of colour in America at that time. Channelling a range of characters including professors at her university, newsreaders, lawyers and witnesses from the court case that arose from the rally, and many lived-experience interviews of people from that time, this is an intense look at racism and how it intersects with the hopes of the American dream.
Shetty’s writing moves between courtroom, her studies and the in-between. The text shows the sheer amount of research that must have gone into the show: the deep dive into the situation of the time through court reports and interviews, as well as Shetty’s own experiences, meld together to caption a period of time that leaves us with a feeling of doom and sadness. In a place where there should have been growth for Shetty and her dream, instead there is a harsher reality.
Shetty is a confident performer as she alternates betweeen direct address, performance, filmed clips, voiceovers and a simple set. Shetty moves at pace between the different voices, although at times this could benefit from time to breathe to let us catch up. Yury Urnov’s direction makes great use of the small space, ensuring that every nook and cranny is used. This is a piece of powerful writing that raises awareness of challenges that have not disappeared but instead have come to the fore.
Show Time: 12-25 Aug @ 12:20
Pleasance Courtyard
Ticket Prices: £12-£14.50
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/charlottesville-the-play-that-trump-does-not-want-you-to-see
Warnings: This show explores the real-life events of the 2017 Unite the Right Rally. It contains powerful accounts from those who were there and includes references to white supremacy and racism. Space Accessibility: Accessible entry: Access via driveway off main road. Performance space is on Ground Floor with no steps, Wheelchair access type: Level Access Stairs: None. Number of stairs is provided as guidance and is not in addition to any wheelchair access type (lift/ramp etc) stated above. May not apply to all performances.
Age restrictions: Accompanied under-16s permitted until 00:00, 16-17-year-olds until 03:00. Age Suitability: 12+ (Guideline). Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 2 years