Written by Anna Deavere Smith in 1992, the play “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” is set in Los Angeles and consists of a set of monologues describing different experiences and perceptions of the Rodney King conflict and the LA Riots. The production lasted approximately 90 minutes without an intermission.

Before the show, the atmosphere was set by gangster rap group NWA playing on the speakers throughout the studio theatre. The stage resembled the inner city of LA, and looked like the aftermath of a crisis with trash littering the floor.

Each actor portrayed a different character, sometimes several, with each character giving a testimony about what happened that cruel summer. The characters came from different walks of life, from Black Panther members to talent agents to lawyers to LAPD officers.

The different monologues showed the many differences in the residents affected by the rioting, but also showed incredible similarities. Light was shed on innocent victims of gunfire, jury members of the Rodney King trial, and Korean store owners whose stores were burnt down in black neighborhoods during the riots.

“Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” shows how racism can affect all races and cultures – not just blacks and whites. The actors remained on stage throughout entire show, with wardrobe changes done there to show the change of characters.

The production was a definite eye-opener. It showed just how far we have come in America, but also that we have much more work to do.