The Assassination of Lincoln: Analyzing Booth's Motives

In the United States, a new play titled 'Land of the Free' explores the life and motivations of John Wilkes Booth, the man who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. The production, created by the Simple8 company, delves into Booth's background, including his upbringing in a theatrical family and his passion for acting. The narrative is structured in two acts, with the first act presenting Booth's life and the second revisiting it through various theatrical styles, emphasizing the cyclical nature of political violence. The play features a seven-member cast, with Brandon Bassir portraying Booth, who justifies his actions as a rebellion against the elite. The performance also includes a meta-textual commentary, drawing parallels between Booth and other historical figures involved in political violence. Notably, Clara Onyemere plays Lincoln, adding a layer of irony as a Black female actor in a contemporary context that could see the election of the first Black female president in the U.S. The production's staging, with its makeshift proscenium arch and red velvet curtains, enhances the theatrical experience, inviting the audience to reflect on the themes of violence and power in American history.