On Saturday July 8th, The Tobago Drama Guild in their first collaborative project with The Trinbago Diaspora Outreach Network reenacted the play of Eric Roach’s: A Calabash of Blood directed by Thabiti. This was part of TDONs’ Homecoming 2023 activities. Eric Roach’s: A Calabash of Blood is a full-length play that was published in 1971 and 1976 by the University of the West Indies. This historical play explores the history and culture of the Caribbean in a plantation during the slavery era and depicts the struggle and resistance of the enslaved people against their oppressors.
There was a healthy turnout of diehard theatre and entertainment fans and well-wishers. The audience included a healthy mix of locals, Trinis and a few foreigners sharing in this awesome theatrical performance. The event commenced at 8pm and was highly entertaining.
To enter the theatre space, patrons first proceeded through an area draped and adorned in a way that reflected the slavery era. The show itself commenced with an unscripted piece; a small tribute to one of their significant actors who had passed just a few days before the event.
After the tribute, patrons were able to watch and enjoy the theatre performance of A Calabash of Blood which was a captivating and powerful experience. At the end, it would also provoke tremendous celebrations. As the play came to its last scene, patrons were invited to join the celebration on the veranda of the Massa house where they delighted in the meals of Yabba, and Corn Soup complemented with Mauby done in an indigenous way, along with Ginger Beer.
What an evening, oh what a celebration at The Guild House. Soca and Reggae music which went on for hours after the play ended. A special thanks to Marsha Roberts Trim who conceptualized and guided the supporting elements that transported patrons back into the colonial setting and Leston Yearwood (TDON’s digital solutions specialist). Also, a special thanks to Beliece Bobb for the photos taken below.
