Show Synopsis
Currently running off Broadway, Sistas is a nonstop celebration of African American women told through Top-40 music, from Bessie Smith to Beyonce. As five women prepare to bury the matriarch of their family, they discuss the history of African-American women, from the trials of the 1930s through the Girl Groups of the 60s to the empowerment of the 90s. Songs include “Oh, Happy Day,” “Mama Said,” “I Will Survive,” “Tyrone,” “I am Not My
Hair” and “A Woman’s Worth.”
Character Breakdown
Gloria: Age 30’s black woman. Very religious.
Roberta: 30-ish black woman. Angry at life and the White Male system. She wants everyone to see how bad things are.
Dr. Simone: College educated, professional woman, in her late 30’s or early 40’s. She is professorial. She is divorced and wants to be in a relationship. She is sister to Gloria and Roberta.
Tamika: She is 18. High school senior. Dresses hip. She uses her body to gain power. She is Simone’s daughter.
Heather (white woman): is sister-in-law to the three women. Married their brother. She is educated and verbally quick, almost a smart-ass. She works with Simone at the community college. She is in her 30’s.
Family background: Dr. Simone is mother to Tamika and big sister to Calvin, whose wife is Heather. Gloria and Roberta are sisters of Simone, too. Their mother is Josephine, and their grandmother is Alice.
What To Prepare
Two songs: One up-tempo, One ballad. Accompanist will be provided as well playback system for tracks. Songs should be pop, jazz, folk, or gospel.
A short prepared monologue or personal story, 2 minutes or less.
