Anna Deavere Smith, widely recognized for her roles in television series such as 'The West Wing' and 'Nurse Jackie,' has created a new play titled 'Basil Biggs' that draws deeply from her personal family history. This production explores the life and legacy of Basil Biggs, an ancestor of Smith, blending intimate storytelling with larger historical contexts. The play continues Smith’s distinctive theatrical method, which incorporates verbatim interviews and multi-character portrayals to provide a rich and genuine narrative experience.
Through 'Basil Biggs,' Smith further investigates themes of identity, race, and memory, maintaining her dedication to exploring American life from a personal and reflective perspective. The play premiered in Philadelphia, where Smith discussed the work in an interview for the arts and culture program CANVAS. Her approach offers audiences a nuanced look at history and heritage, presented through compelling performance and storytelling techniques.