“The Mountaintop,” written by Tennessee playwright Katori Hall, reimagines the night before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Currently showing at TPAC, the play runs until Sunday, Feb. 23, and it’s a great way to celebrate Black History Month. I chatted with the play’s director, Nashville local and Fisk alum Alicia Haymer, about the play and Nashville’s theater scene.
Fisk alum Alicia Haymer directs “The Mountaintop.” (Bralyn Stokes Photography)
What’s your favorite and least favorite thing about Nashville's theater scene?
“Our theater scene is wonderful. We are a big family that supports and leans on each other to help bring our creative works to life. My least favorite thing about Nashville's theater scene is the lack of resources. Art is important, and professional artists matter to the world. Who does the world turn to in times of trouble? The artists! We deserve all the financial support necessary to live a full life without needing several gigs to make ends meet.”
Why is this the right moment to direct “The Mountaintop”?
“There's never not a right time to direct/produce a work as important as this. Right now, the media is trying to convince us of how much hate and separation there is in the world. We have to combat that with love. To quote the playwright Katori Hall, ‘Love is the most radical weapon there is.’ When the Nashville Repertory Theatre leadership reached out to me to gauge my interest in the show, I was so excited, and couldn't wait to join the creative team.”
What are some memorable moments from bringing this play to life?
“It's been a joy working with leads Tamiko Robinson Steele and Rashad Rayford, who are dear friends of mine, and brilliant actors. Together, along with the creative team, we were able to create something extremely special for Nashville. The moments in the rehearsal room as we dove into the script and made discoveries were very special. Seeing those moments come to life from the page is very rewarding. I can't wait for the community to see what we've created.”
