Billy Porter and Harrison David Rivers Discuss the Urgency of Their New Play

When Harrison David Rivers started working on "This Bitter Earth" back in 2015, he dreamed it would one day be seen as a historical piece. He hoped audiences would look back and see how much progress had been made. "But," he says now, "that hasn't happened."

The story follows Jesse, a Black playwright who's thoughtful and introspective, and his boyfriend Neil, a white, privileged activist passionate about Black Lives Matter. Neil's activism burns with anger over ongoing violence against Black men, while Jesse lives with this harsh reality every day, beyond just activism.

The play, which spans three years in about 90 minutes, explores how their relationship withstands their starkly different worlds. Currently, it's in its 13th iteration, being performed at London's Soho Theatre until July 26. Omari Douglas, known from "It's A Sin" and "Black Doves," plays Jesse, while Neil's role goes Alexander Lincoln, familiar from "Emmerdale" and "A Night Like This." Direction comes from Billy Porter, famed actor from "Pose."

How "This Bitter Earth" came about

"This Bitter Earth" isn't just about activism; it's about finding strength in love against all odds. The play was born from what Rivers recalls as a "challenging prompt" given by a theater company, encouraging him personally examine what it means moving through America as a Black man.

At that time, stories like those tragic deaths young Black men such as Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown were fresh, and Black Lives Matter was gaining steam. "I was scared, more aware than ever," Rivers shares. "It's a privilege not having think about your presence in a space."

Rivers, like Jesse, wrestled with his connection activism and BLM. Set from 2012 2015, play became outlet processing his emotions fear, discomfort, love anger. "Writing became my activism," Rivers acknowledges. "It was my stand."

The ongoing battle justice

Years later, Rivers still reflects on navigating America as a Black man. "I hope someday it's no longer issue, bodies revered sacred," he contemplates.

Since "This Bitter Earth" opened in San Francisco in 2017, America has been through much upheaval. Trump's time in office, George Floyd's murder, and other tragic events have reshaped conversations.

"There's a lot hurt," Rivers observes. "Conversations need happening."

The play doesn't shy away from tough questions: What does "solidarity" actually mean? Can we really grasp someone else's experience? Can love last despite vast differences?

Billy Porter's fresh perspective

Billy Porter brings a unique view on America's current state. He and Rivers chatted over Zoom—Rivers was London-bound, Porter finishing "Cabaret" in London. Porter likens today's US society Nazi Germany, saying, "Right now, Jews are Black people."

Porter emphasizes his activism art. "My politics live there," he says. "In both my joy my fear." His career's focused on showcasing Black, queer stories, from "Kinky Boots" "Pose."

"This Bitter Earth" marks Porter West End directorial debut. Despite a tight 16-day rehearsal schedule, he's confident his actors. "They're good," he simply states.

Rivers lauds Porter's "deep understanding" play dynamics era it reflects. As 55-year-old queer Black man, Porter's life experience enriches production, enabling actors immerse themselves their roles.

"Billy's presence undeniable," Rivers reflects. "He makes piece resonate today's audiences."

Art's healing power

Rivers hopes "This Bitter Earth" sparks candid conversations. "I want audiences leave feeling embraced, with little extra strength," he says.

"Art heals," Porter adds. "I want it inspire action."

"This Bitter Earth" continues its run at London's Soho Theatre until July 26, challenging audiences with its powerful message on love, activism, and justice.