
An Invitation to Explore Haiti's Revolutionary History Through Theatre
Join us for a significant online presentation that promises to illuminate the rich history of Haiti’s fight for freedom through the lens of theater. Dr. Alexander Gil Fuentes, a Senior Lecturer at Yale University, will present "The Two Ellipses: Aimé Césaire's First Play on the Haitian Revolution" as part of the Conferencias Caribeñas lecture series sponsored by the Institute of Caribbean Studies. This event is set to take place on Zoom on October 2, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (AST) and is designed to engage all attendees in a vibrant discussion.
Césaire's 'Lost Play' and Its Relevance Today
Dr. Gil's presentation will delve into Aimé Césaire's lesser-known work, Et les chiens se taisaient ("... And The Dogs Were Silent"), which recounts the gripping tale of the Haitian Revolution and its key figure, Toussaint Louverture. This earliest version of the play, discovered by Dr. Gil in 2008, stands apart from later adaptations and offers a unique perspective on Haiti’s struggle against colonial oppression. Critic Jackqueline Frost notes that this work serves as a poetic vindication of the rebels' transformative fight against the colonial regime, a theme that resonates powerfully in contemporary discussions around colonial legacies and social justice.
The Power of Performance in Cultural Memory
The event will also feature insights from Dr. Lowell Fiet, an esteemed expert in drama and performance studies, whose contributions will help analyze the play's impact on our understanding of history. This is especially pertinent as we reflect on how cultural narratives shape our consciousness about past injustices while also ideating pathways towards healing and empowerment.
The Significance of Participation in Modern Discourse
While the presentation focuses on Césaire’s work, it sparks dialogue about broader themes in the Caribbean and global context—resistance, identity, and collective memory. The participation of stakeholders in tourism and conscious travelers is crucial in preserving and promoting these narratives that inform our understanding of the culturally rich landscapes we engage with today. It encourages a re-evaluation of how we perceive our travel choices and their impact on cultural heritage.
Don’t Miss This Chance to Engage
We invite tourism stakeholders and conscious travelers alike to partake in this unique opportunity to connect with Haiti’s revolutionary past and its implications for the present. The discussion promises to be enriching and thought-provoking, encouraging you to reflect on the stories behind the destinations we cherish.
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