Bigger and the Big Questions: 'Native Son'

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JOBLESSNESS, HOPELESSNESS — FOR Bigger Thomas, these conditions are nearly paralyzing.

Bigger, the abrasive antihero of Richard Wright's "Native Son," sleeps on the floor of his family's apartment with his brother, not motivated to search for jobs or help out around the house. Stymied by the racial injustices of the 1940s, his biggest accomplishment of the day comes from smashing a household rat with a frying pan.

Bigger's fortune changes when he scores a job serving as a driver for the wealthy, white Dalton family — the owners of the tenement in which he lives. Suddenly, Bigger finds himself surrounded by luxury and charged with keeping track of the Dalton's daughter, who, like many a contemporary heiress, is fond of booze and rule-breaking.

After only a short time, the situation falls apart. A violent accident lands Bigger in over his head, and what unfolds presents the audience with a myriad of issues related to race, social class and justice. While more than 50 years have passed since the story first emerged in Wright's novel, the story still addresses uneasy questions about society.

The American Century Theater's production of "Native Son" offers an opportunity to see the seldom-staged play. It features a large ensemble cast and a brooding, sensitive lead performance by Ja-Ben A. Early. After every show, the theater offers audiences an opportunity to discuss the play with the cast, designers, crew and other special guests.

» Gunston Arts Center, 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington; through May 9, $28-$32; 703-998-4555.

Written by Express contributor Dan Miller
Photo courtesy Micah Hutz Photography