'Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea' hits home at American Players Theatre

Rebecca Jamieson, Isthmus

As Madison reels from the police killing of Corey Ruiz, art that encourages us to value and take action for Black lives is as necessary as ever — and Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea does just that. “At a time when our nation continues to struggle with questions of justice, identity, and the value of Black lives, Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea offers both urgency and hope,” writes Tyrone Phillips in his director’s note. “It reminds us that understanding ourselves requires us to confront our histories, honor those who came before us, and remain open to transformation.”

Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea is a modern-day fable that blends past and present into poetry that will linger in your imagination long after you’ve left the theater. Written by Nathan Alan Davis, the play runs through Sept. 25 at the Touchstone Theatre at American Players Theatre.

Dontrell Jones III (Derrick Moore) is an 18-year-old Black boy living with his family in Baltimore, who is bound for Johns Hopkins in the fall. But rather than enjoying the summer goofing off with his best friend Robby (Rasell Holt), he’s become captivated by a world no one else understands. He hides in his room recording a “captain’s log” for future generations, while trying to make sense of vivid dreams of his African ancestors aboard a slave ship — including the mysterious man who jumps overboard. His visions lead him on a mythic journey to understand his identity, make peace with the past, and embrace the magic of the present.

As Dontrell withdraws into the world of his dreams, his family grows worried. But they’re also haunted by the sea, and keeping their own secrets. Sister Danielle (Samantha Newcomb) takes on family burdens beyond her years while dreaming of being a mermaid. Dad (Gavin Lawrence) refuses to tell Dontrell the story of his grandfather whose visions of the ancestors also led him to the sea — and tragedy. Meanwhile, Mom (Dee Dee Batteast) will do anything to keep Dontrell from the water.

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