Debate: Baldwin vs Buckley at Wilton’s Music Hall Review
Written by Cathie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
The Cambridge Union Society debate of Baldwin vs Buckley held on 18th February 1965 is renowned for being one of the most historically powerful and significant debates on race relations in America in the 20th century. Although the debated question was “Has the American Dream been achieved at the expense of the American Negro?” The arguments showcased present a whole range of issues including institutional discrimination, segregation, disenfranchisement, social inequality and economic injustice.
Directed by Christopher McElroen, this is a powerful production which highlights the language and impact of this debate in an accessible and enjoyable production. An especially clever element of this production was its use of archival footage of the actual historical debate. This created an atmosphere in the theatre, and it was interesting to see similar cross-generational reactions to these debates. This projection, along with four chairs are the only addition to this minimalist set, thereby leaving all focus to be on the foundational rhetoric being debated on stage. Without going into too much depth, this debate features exploration into institutional racism, segregation, entrenched social attitudes towards African Americans, the actions of Martin Luther King and the difficulties of increasing the voter role for minorities in the US. Focused on the ‘harm’ towards the American Dream, it pinpoints the pain and suffering felt by many in a powerful and deeply profound way. It is also interesting to see many of these same debates being reiterated in modern politics today, with many direct echoes from this time.
The actors were impressive in their composed performance and gravitas on stage. Every possible nuance and slight change in posture was utilised to its best performance. Arnell Powell as James Baldwin has powerful gravitas and nuance. Eric T. Miller as William F. Buckley Jr., was able to effectively express the mannerisms and subtle rage of the Southern conservative. Tom Kitely as Burford and Christopher Wareham as Haycock were excellent in their debate roles as the initial introductions to the arguments presented.
Debate: Baldwin Vs Buckley is an insightful, powerful and profound production which highlights the triumph of the human spirit and explores the heart of US politics, which has essentially echoed this argument since its original broadcasting in 1965. This is a must-see for any fan of rhetoric or anyone interested in US politics and societal attitudes. If you enjoy debates which showcase the heart of our society, powerful prose and an atmospheric production which brings politics vividly to life, then this is the show for you.
Running until 7th February
★★★★
