PARTING SHOT
THIS YEAR KARA YOUNG BROKE A TONYS RECORD, BECOMING THE FIRST Black person to receive three consecutive nominations and only the sixth person ever to do so. “It feels special that the third [nomination] is historical, but more historical in the sense that it’s civil rights activist Ossie Davis’ words that are being activated and recognized.” Young’s nomination is for the play Purlie Victorious, a comedy written by Davis in 1961 and revived for Broadway this year with Young and Leslie Odom Jr. “This is 63 years since its last production on Broadway, and I feel like for this play to be recognized is so important.” Young says the script of Purlie Victorious is “such an American masterpiece of text” and that it was the diverse audiences that came to see the play that made it so special. “In the history of people being silenced, you are listening to a Black woman, a Black man, a Black cast, speak their truth, unapologetically speak Ossie Davis’ words. How magical is that?” For Young, it’s the power of plays that inspires her. “I feel like plays allow us to see each other as human.”
How do you process the enormity of the legacy of this play?
I was absolutely nervous. And then there’s also a part of me that feels like this thing feels beyond me. And I have to just say, “Yes, I just have to surrender to not only opportunity, but this very magical moment.” People have been saying that I remind them of Ruby Dee [who originated Young’s role] for so long. I’m still pinching myself. I can’t e
