Five women take the stage in Southern Rep’s newest play, Eclipsed

Editor’s Note: In celebration of Southern Rep’s newest play, Eclipsed–written by Danai Gurira and directed by Malika Oyetimein–we talked with the five women who will take the stage opening night on April 18. Eclipsed is the story of five women, and their lives are set on a nightmarish detour by the Liberian Civil War. As they navigate the dangers of captivity and imagine what the future could hold, the arrival of a new girl threatens to upend their delicately balanced community.

Southern Rep’s production of Eclipsed will run from April 18- May 16 (Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 3:00 at Loyola University, Marquette Theatre). You can purchase tickets here.

Sarah Nansubuga, who plays Mama in Southern Rep’s production of Eclipsed (photo by: Josh Brasted)

Name: Sarah Nansubuga

Role in Eclipsed: Maima

Favorite line from the play: “I gettin’ too old to be doin’ sometin’ differen’” -Helena

What advice in life would you take from your character?

There is no room for forgetfulness in a volatile mind. You are what you channel through your synapses; ideas find their way from the head to the hand. There is no other path for violence.

What ritual do you have to get ready for a performance?

There are two kinds. By myself, I need a short prayer, a sip of water, and a quiet moment. With the ensemble, we huddle, pray and speak LIFE into the coming show.

If you could take one piece of the set design with you, what would it be and why?

The wall of the room that the women sleep in. I love that wall because of the color and texture of it. That almost-sky-blue rough surface with the cement coming off in odd places is reminiscent of the places in which I spent my childhood. My growing years were spent in rooms that very much resembled the one in the show – minus the bullet-holes. Its rugged texture calls to me every time my eyes find it; it reminds me that I have somewhere to belong.

Why is performing this play in New Orleans, specifically, incredibly important?

Eclipsed allows women of color to stake a claim in the center of their own narratives. A space is created to demystify the strength and iron of black women, and they are allowed to break in the safety of the little bubble they have created for themselves amidst the insanity of war raging around them.

It becomes less about a highly unusual set of circumstances dictating a “suitable” response, and more about the gift of the now. There is value in a smile, a touch, a moment, and this play allowed us to breathe in the rare delight of simplicity. This was a sharp reminder for me as a woman of color, that my struggle to exist is as valid as my need to deny it. It is my prayer that all women who see Eclipsed may find themselves freed of the burden of their strength.

What was the most common food ordered/eaten during rehearsals?

Coffee! I have always disliked coffee, but until now I never knew it could taste so good!