‘Dance Like There’s Black People Watching’
Through Dec. 22
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
641 D St., N.W.
$40 – $83
woollymammoth.net
The Second City, Chicago’s famed improv proving ground, makes a timely return to Woolly Mammoth with “Dance Like There’s Black People Watching,” a humor-loaded and sharp show especially tailored to D.C.
Breon Arzell who’s Black and gay, has been a part of Second City and “Dance Like There’s Black People Watching” since 2022, first as choreographer and now as both cast member and choreographer. He says although the show is highlighting Black culture, it’s geared for everyone. In short, “if you don’t know about [Black culture], learn about it; and if you’re a part of it, come celebrate with us.”
He adds, “There are some things Black audiences will instantly get and appreciate more. But there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s rooted in joy and comedy.”
Performed by six talented and versatile Black actors, the show consists of sketches derived from improvisation, audience participation improv, monologues, songs, and rap solos.
As the title suggests, Arzell’s choreography is a vital part of what’s happening on stage, too. The dance (inspired by TV’s “In Living Color” and its unforgettable Fly Girls) peppers the show’s 90 minutes with bursts of backup and transitional moves.
“Dance Like There’s Black People Watching” was created and premiered in Chicago, and it was “very Chicago,” says Arzell, adding “there were some references that wouldn’t have worked here, so we slotted in some D.C. specific things including political references and there’s a cast member [Julius Shanks II] who’s currently in his senior year at Howard University. He shouts out the school.”
It’s opening in D.C. at an undeniably hot time, and there’s no guarantee that election results will be settled anytime soon. Arzell says, “We know nothing will be wrapped up neatly with a bow. We have contingency plans depending on how things go and how that might play into the
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