Witness Uganda at American Repertory Theatre

Learn This Lesson                                      

by Abigail Cote

     “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” A lesson taught since kindergarten, but a lesson that’s not easy to follow. Judgment isn’t always intentional, but it happens. If we learn how to be open-minded then we will develop better relationships and we will get to know people. Truthfully knowing someone can change your perspective on the world and on other humans that you live with. This is what the musical “Witness Uganda” teaches. It teaches acceptance, openness, selflessness and friendship. 

     Griffin Matthews the main character co-wrote the musical with Matt Gould. It is based on true events that Griffin experienced, first starting when he took a trip to Uganda. He didn’t feel he was in the right place, a struggling gay actor in New York. He leaves his best friend, Ryan, who stays in New York to pursue her music career, and he flies to Uganda to be a part of charity group that builds schools for Ugandans.

     He moves into a home with a woman named Joy and his soon to be “brother”, Jacob. Joy is strict with Jacob and only wants to follow the rules. She has a certain edge to her that is not easily likable, but assumptions should be left aside.

     It seems that there are secrets and the whole truth is not being told about the charity group. Come to find out the pastor is corrupt and keeps all the money that is raised. Not wanting to be part of the charity anymore, Griffin takes in four teenagers who only want to learn. They become a class and Griffin teaches them to dream and convinces them that they are special.

     Relationships develop, emotions and dreams are shared, and saving these kids becomes complex as time goes on, and money becomes involved.

     Expect to take a trip to Africa and be submerged in African culture, people and weather. The set came alive and was moving, literally and figuratively. The lights and the set changes were smooth and easy to watch. Like a ballerina, the set was delicate and simple to watch, but was built with muscle to make a beautiful production. The angles of the lighting and the colors of the lighting took you to the place that was being depicted. Costumes were convincing and not over the top. Without many props, what really made the set come alive was the music, the lights, the costumes and the dancing. The ensemble has a certain depth to it that was enjoyable. It all came together and brought you to Uganda.

     It’s a breath of fresh air to have something that is inspiring without being an advertisement to “do good” for the world. Witness Uganda laid the truth out on the table and taught everyone in the audience a lesson.