Lena Waithe on the Power of Storytelling and “The Peculiar Patriot”
Award-winning writer and producer Lena Waithe brings The Peculiar Patriot — written and performed by the fearless Liza Jessie Peterson — to Baltimore Center Stage for its final performances this week. The acclaimed production, which first shook the walls of Angola Penitentiary, is a bold reminder of art's ability to disrupt, liberate, and inspire action.
We caught up with Lena to talk about why this story belongs in Baltimore, how art continues to shape social justice movements, and what it means to keep showing up for each other through creativity and community:
Q: "The Peculiar Patriot" has been described as a cultural reckoning — what moved you to bring this story to Baltimore, and what do you hope audiences take away from it in this moment?
A: Stevie Walker-Webb is the artistic director at Baltimore Center Stage which is a historic theater and beautiful space – so when I asked him if he was interested be bring it there - he said he was already in talks to do so - and I just put him and Liza on the phone and now we're here. I hope audiences know how much power their physical presence in theaters means to pieces like Peculiar patriot. Their support helps us to continue to bring stories like this to regional theatres everywhere. all we have to do is keep showing up for each other.
Q: Art and activism have always been intertwined in our community. How do you see storytelling serving as a tool for social justice today?
A: The Arts are here to hold a reflection up to our society. That's what this art does. It tells us who we are. And the ownness is on us to take action or do nothing.
Q: You've used your platform to amplify stories that are often overlooked. What drew you to Liza Jessie Peterson's work, and how does this collaboration reflect your vision as a producer and cultural curator?
A: Liza reminds me of those revolutionary artists that cared more about the mission than making a profit. For her it's about the people. Liza is empowering audiences with her art and that's always something I want to support.
Q: Baltimore has a rich legacy of resistance and creativity. What does it mean to you to stage this production here, and how can audiences keep the conversation going long after the curtain falls?
A: Baltimore has always felt like a renaissance. This story belongs in Baltimore. We are honored to be in Baltimore. The audiences can keep the conversation going by continuing to talk about the play and what it's asking of us. Liza's work is timely and timeless and it's on us to keep her legacy alive.