←Recommendations of R&B (Rhythm and Belchan)

A great play about abuse and how it thrives in the music industry. A play that shows audiences how vulnerable black girls are to predators in the spaces where they should feel the most powerful and creative. Loved how the music comes and goes in this play. A play with a really powerful ending that will start some much needed dialogue.

A moving, expansive piece that uses time to illustrate cycles of abuse, harm, and adultification perpetuated against Black women, specifically in the music industry, in a way that always keeps the humanity of its characters in sight. I love how the idea of generational echoes existed not just between Etta and Belchan as characters but also in the ways that Etta felt Belchan's music from a decade and a half ago would resonate in the present. Beautifully drawn characters. Lovely incorporation of music. A moving balance of pain and hope. I'd love to see this on its feet!

A beautiful play about a very uncomfortable topic that leaves you feeling hopeful and empowered.

I had the pleasure of seeing a reading of this piece while in development. It centers a vulnerable, complex, deeply sympathetic character in Belchan who helps us understand better how the music industry (and all entertainment) breaks its promises to young women, and especially Black girls. And at the same time, as fits the playwright's brand, it tells this painful story with joy and hope. The final lines of this play have stuck with me and echoed in my mind many times over.