“Black Mother Lost Daughter,” written by Fedna Jacquet and directed by Stevie Walker-Webb, is a powerful and thought-provoking play that delves into the depths of human emotions and societal issues. The story revolves around the tragic loss of Princess’s sister, Queen, at the hands of the police: “two officers were sent to help” but “what they did was murder.”

Stevie Walker-Webb

Fedna Jacquet

This devastating event shatters a family bond of 3 women (2 sisters and a mother), leaving Princess to simultaneously fighting for justice in court and on the streets, while shouldering the responsibility of caring for her mother, who is engulfed in her grief and even confusion, accompanied by drinking, as she witnessed the “life [of her child] being taken away” yet “couldn’t move” to save her.

One of the play’s greatest strengths is its exploration of a wide range of themes. At its core, “Black Mother Lost Daughter” tackles the profound pain caused by a broken family bond. The audience is confronted with the harsh realities of injustice and the urgent need for reparations in a society plagued by systemic issues. The weight of grief is palpable throughout the performance, as each character grapples with their own personal demons triggered by the life event.

The play also sensitively explores the concept of parentification as Princess assumes the role of a caregiver for her mother, becoming invisible as a child and not having room nor space to grief for her own loss. It becomes evident that her mother is stuck in the past, desperately clinging to memories of Queen while struggling to acknowledge the present, especially her living daughter, who, in her turn, embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery and resilience.

With that, the production delves into the complex realm of mental health, highlighting the toll that trauma takes on individuals and families. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing one’s emotional well-being, while also shedding light on the challenges faced by those who are struggling, evoking compassion and empathy for one another.

And lastly, “Black Mother Lost Daughter” fearlessly addresses the pervasive issue of police brutality, shedding light on the disproportionate violence faced by marginalized communities. By interweaving this topic into the narrative, this play prompts crucial conversations about the pressing need for social change and accountability.

FUN FACT:

When the production was casting actors for the roles in “Black Mother Lost Daughter”, this is how the ad described each character. I also liked their synopsis: A play about a mother who lost a daughter and is in the process of losing another one. Click here to see the full ad.

In conclusion, the work of Fedna Jacquet skillfully weaves together the various themes of injustice, grief, and survival, creating a narrative tapestry that is both heart-wrenching and enlightening. The performances are captivating, with each actor embodying their character’s pain, resilience, and determination with utmost authenticity. The writing is poignant and evocative, drawing the audience into the raw emotions of the story, inviting the audience to reflect on the pressing social issues while inspiring hope for a more compassionate and just future.