Charles Wootton, and Every Yellowman

Liverpool was once the gateway to the new world; people left Pierhead with hope and optimism for a better life in the US. The mouth of the Mersey river was a Conradian opening toward prosperity.
In 1919 a mob of over 200 chased the Black seaman Charles Wootton down to the banks of the Mersey, and as he swam for his life a peltering of stones ended him.
The Mersey has seen alot of blood.

Such blood is seeped within the walls of the city, from the "immigrants served" sign in the Pig and Whistle to the inspiringly majestic buildings paid for by the slave trade. A fitting host, therefore, for 'Yellowman' by Dael Orlandersmith

Faith and I saw the play on Friday night, and were both utterly drawn in. The simplicity of the format: a dual monologue by two interwined characters who never lock eyes, manages to hold attention by the quickening pace of the racial tensions, as Alma and Gene retell their deep South passage into adulthood. It paints a bleak picture of humanity, via two exceptional performances. Themes of identity and determinism emerge.

Currently at the Everyman the Pulitzer nominated, critically aclaimed masterpiece is highly recommended. And with tickets from just £8, it seems that the black hole of Liverpool's City of Culture claims is being ammended, and the black secret is being confronted.