Who is Shaniqua Jenkins? The casting directors certainly think they know, but under the “sassy” and “bold” exterior they want, lies a whole other woman ready to show them what’s what. Writer and performer bahia watson brings her unique sense of humour and point of view with her play shaniqua in abstraction. In its World Premiere run at Crow’s Theatre, shaniqua in abstraction examines the ideas of performing race, as well as sexism and racism, all the while keeping the audience in stitches. Beautifully directed by Sabryn Rock, shaniqua in abstraction will keep you thinking about this play long after the lights go down.

watson plays Shaniqua Jenkins, a young actress who we meet while she’s at an audition. As she’s pushed further and further by the casting agents, we begin to delve deeper into the complex emotions and thoughts Shaniqua’s experiencing. The play is parcelled into sketches, with each one exploring a different aspect of her existence. Meanwhile, we still get the occasional interruption from the casting director, asking Shaniqua to do something more or differently than she’s already performing. The framing narrative allows watson to really go for it, to fully express thoughts and air grievances which have a delicious bite to them. Yet these stinging pieces of truth elicit laughter, as members of the audience are simultaneously in on the joke, and the butt of it.

shaniqua in abstraction made me uncomfortable, and I couldn’t be more thankful for that. We should feel uncomfortable that the world still works this way, because from that discomfort will come change. It made me really look at how I interact with BIPOC people and where can I be a better advocate and friend. There were times where bahia watson reads us all for filth, and it was absolutely warranted. Having gotten my nails done a few weeks ago, I laughed far too hard at that portion of the “Vaguely Exotic” starter pack (Trade Mark). I truly believe that one of the most special functions of art, and theatre in particular, is the capacity for reflection and change; shaniqua in abstraction gives us that opportunity in spades.

Echo Zhu’s set design combined with Kimberly Purtell’s lighting and Laura Warren’s video design make shaniqua in abstraction a visually stunning solo show. The screens not only help divide and name the sections of the play, they allow the audience to feel fully transported and a part of the scene. I particularly love the stereotypical brick wall backdrop for the stand-up segments, and find the ghostly office stand-in Shaniqua spine-tingling.

watson delivers a riveting performance; she barely takes a moment to rest throughout the entirety of the 90 minutes. Her movement and dancing, choreographed by the incomparable Jaz Fairy J, is mesmerizing. Each motion feels deliberate and organic; a fitting and graceful addition to her storytelling. While watching the show, part of me wondered how long she’s been waiting to say some of the things she talks about in this play? Because you can see the truth and honesty in every aspect of her performance, even when she’s cracking a joke. Her passionate portrayal is moving and inspiring; everything I have come to enjoy in watson’s work.

I urge you to come and witness shaniqua in abstraction. Come in ready to laugh with Shaniqua, and at yourselves, and in dong so learn. This is an event I promise you won’t want to miss! shaniqua in abstraction runs until April 28th in the Studio Theatre at Streetcar Crowsnest. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.crowstheatre.com/whats-on/view-all/shaniquainabstraction

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Cover photo: bahia watson. Photo by Roya DelSol

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