Hype Man
Wilbury Theatre Group, Providence, RI
Hype Man focuses on three up-and-coming rap artists about to make their debut on the Tonight Show. When a Black teenager is killed by the police, the group fractures over what response – if any – is needed.
The lead rapper insists that he’s not political and wants to be famous, but also safe. His costumes are neutral: black and gray, with jeans. He wears his hood up and sunglasses to perform, hiding his individuality so to blend better.
The hype man is trying to channel his anger into something productive, but he feels penned up. He wears layers and never removes them, but his colors are earthy, as he wants to be – in fact, insists on being – part of the global community.
The DJ is comfortable with herself and knows her worth, but she is tired of being overlooked. She wears bright colors so she can be seen but is very careful with her femininity. She knows she needs to be attractive to get people’s attention but can’t be too sexual or she’ll be dismissed.
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