Cast:
Nicole Brooks - Candi
Saphire Demitro - Sarah
Macomere Fifi - Elder
Joni NehRita - Tituba
Saidah Baba Talibah - Mary
Chorus:
Kanika Ambrose
Neema Bickersteth
Sheila Boyd
Jessica Brown
Qwyn Alexis Charter
Najla Edwards
Nickeshia Garrick
Angelique Lazarus
Lisa Michelle McKenzie
Bemnet Tekleyohannes
Producing Companies: b current and Theatre Archipelago
Obeah Opera is a musical work presented by b current and Theatre Archipelago during Black History Month. Set in 17th-century Salem, Massachusetts, the story follows Tituba and other Caribbean women, brought as slaves to the "free state" of America. They carry their traditions, including obeah – a healing art perceived as blasphemy and witchcraft by the local Puritans. The women must practice their traditions discreetly to avoid persecution. However, when children under their care fall ill, they are accused, arrested, and face trial for witchcraft. The opera explores their struggle to comprehend their impending doom, finding solace and strength through prayers and mutual comfort. Ultimately, Tituba accepts the accusations of being a witch, saving herself from being burned at the stake, leaving the question of whether she is a "wise woman or a witch." The production is performed entirely a cappella, a deliberate choice by the director to offer an unbiased artistic exploration of reclaiming taboo spaces, re-visioning history, and a personal spiritual journey.
Credits:
Creator, Librettist, Composer, and Performer (Candi): Nicole Brooks
Director: ahdri zhina mandiela
Composition & Arrangement: Nicole Brooks
Additional Arrangement: Tova Kardonne
Producer: Rhoma Spencer
Musical Director: Tova Kardonne
Assistant Directors: Jajube Mandiela & Alison Wong
Set and Costume Designer: Julia Tribe
Lighting Designer: CJ Astronomo
Choreographer: Anthony Prime Guerra
Dramaturge: Annie Szamosi
Assistant Music Director/Vocal Coach: Wilma Cromwell
Stage Manager: Sandi Becker
Poster Concept and Photography: Michael Chambers
Graphic Design: Frantz Brent Harris
Additional Graphic Design & Program Layout: Marsha Edwards