Broadway Breakdown: Episode Summary – FAT HAM with Jayson Kerr

Release Date: November 14, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of Broadway Breakdown, host Matt Koplik welcomes his guest, Jason Kerr, to delve into the intricacies of the Pulitzer-winning play "Fat Ham". This engaging conversation explores the play's narrative, character dynamics, thematic depth, and its place within contemporary American theater.

Overview of "Fat Ham"

[07:22] Matt Koplik:
"We are talking about Fat Ham, which I love ham."

Jason Kerr introduces the play "Fat Ham", clarifying that while it draws inspiration from Shakespeare's Hamlet, it is not a direct adaptation. Instead, it uses Hamlet as a springboard to explore complex themes surrounding family, identity, and trauma within a Black queer context.

Plot and Character Discussions

[07:36] Matt Koplik:
"What is Fat Ham like? What is it about? What's the plot? What's the story?"

Fat Ham centers around Juicy, a young Black queer man grappling with the recent death of his father, Pap, who was murdered in prison. His mother, Teedra, quickly marries his uncle, Rev, mirroring the swift remarriage of Gertrude to Claudius in Hamlet. The play unfolds during a family barbecue, where Pap's ghost appears to Juicy, urging him to avenge his death—a direct parallel to the ghost of Hamlet's father.

[28:13] Jason Kerr:
"His father has died and immediately his mother marries his brother."

The characters in Fat Ham are reimagined to fit this modern narrative:

• Juicy embodies Hamlet, struggling with his father's death and his own sense of identity.
• Teedra, resembling Gertrude, navigates her loyalty between Juicy and Rev.
• Rev, akin to Claudius, becomes a complex antagonist whose motivations intertwine with family and control.
• Rabby, similar to Ophelia, and Larry, paralleling Laertes, further enrich the narrative with their unique perspectives and relationships.

Themes: Trauma and the Cycle of Abuse

[34:41] Matt Koplik:
"It discusses how one goes about breaking the cycle of family trauma."

A central theme in Fat Ham is the cycle of trauma and toxic masculinity. The play poignantly addresses how inherited trauma affects generations, particularly within the Black community, highlighting struggles with masculinity and emotional suppression.

[35:04] Jason Kerr:
"Especially in Black culture because of slavery and everything. It changes our DNA."

The conversation delves into how Fat Ham portrays the enduring impact of systemic trauma, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and breaking free from these destructive cycles to foster healing and self-acceptance.

Pulitzer Prize Context

[09:10] Matt Koplik:
"Love it. It did."

Fat Ham garnered critical acclaim, winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Matt and Jason discuss the significance of this achievement, noting how the play stands out as a rare Pulitzer-winning piece that centers a Black queer narrative without solely focusing on pain, but rather on resilience and joy through trauma.

[15:02] Jason Kerr:
"There's no Pulitzer winner where you go, well, that's a piece of shit."

They also touch upon the broader landscape of Pulitzer winners, critiquing selections that may not resonate as strongly with audiences compared to Fat Ham’s impactful storytelling.

Personal Anecdotes and Reflections

Throughout the episode, Matt and Jason share personal experiences related to Fat Ham. Matt recounts attending a workshop for the musical and his initial skepticism about its length and format, only to be won over by its depth and emotional resonance.

[16:12] Matt Koplik:
"Sometimes the most painful part of getting sick is the getting better part."

Jason echoes similar sentiments, highlighting how Fat Ham provided solace and a sense of community post-pandemic through its compelling portrayal of complex characters and relationships.

Final Thoughts

[150:54] Jason Kerr:
"In the end, it's about choosing how to break free from the past and embrace a path of self-discovery and joy."

The episode concludes with Matt and Jason reflecting on the enduring legacy of Fat Ham. They emphasize the play's message of choosing oneself and breaking free from harmful patterns, advocating for more inclusive and diverse stories in American theater that celebrate resilience and multifaceted identities.

[151:33] Matt Koplik:
"I hope that more people do. I hope colleges do it. I hope that schools do it."

They express hope that Fat Ham will inspire future productions and become a staple in educational and regional theaters, continuing to impact audiences with its powerful narrative and thematic richness.

Notable Quotes

• Matt Koplik [07:36]:
  "Fat Ham uses Hamlet as a vehicle to tell a story about a family."

• Jason Kerr [35:04]:
  "Especially in Black culture because of slavery and everything. It changes our DNA."

• Matt Koplik [150:40]:
  "A rare Pulitzer winner for a Black story that isn't about pain."

• Jason Kerr [151:33]:
  "It's about choosing how to break free from the past and embrace a path of self-discovery and joy."

Conclusion

This episode of Broadway Breakdown offers a deep and insightful exploration of Fat Ham, celebrating its innovative approach to classic narratives and its significant contribution to contemporary American theater. Matt Koplik and Jason Kerr successfully highlight the play’s emotional depth, cultural relevance, and its triumphant recognition within the prestigious Pulitzer framework, making it a must-listen for theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.