The Ohio State Murders is a gripping play that delves into the themes of racism, identity, and tragedy. Commissioned in 1989, it offers a narrative woven through the memories of its protagonist, Suzanne, taking audiences back to her painful college experiences. The play, directed by Gerald Freedman for the Great Lakes Theater Festival, marks a pivotal piece in Adrienne Kennedy's body of work.

Memory as Narrative

The play unfolds through a series of vignettes, each filtered through the recollections of Suzanne, the narrator. From the vantage point of the university library, she recounts her life from 1949 to 1951, a period marked by personal and societal challenges. These fragmented scenes capture the struggles and humiliations she faced as a young black woman navigating a predominantly white academic environment.

Racial Challenges

Suzanne's journey at Ohio State is marred by both subtle and overt racism, which seizes her sense of identity. She is made to feel unwelcome on certain streets and discouraged from pursuing an English major due to racial prejudices. This constant barrage of discrimination leaves her feeling uneasy and threatened, even suspecting her dormitory mates of harboring violent intentions.

An Academic Ray of Hope

Amidst these struggles, Suzanne finds solace in a course on the Victorian novel, taught by Robert Hampshire, a novice professor. This class becomes a rare source of joy, as she becomes engrossed in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles. Suzanne draws parallels between her plight and the oppressive narrative of Tess, realizing how societal constraints can stifle one's spirit.

Tragedy Unveiled

Interspersed with Suzanne’s recollections are her present-day realizations about her tragic past. She reveals that one of her twin daughters, born from a fleeting relationship with Hampshire, was murdered. Hampshire’s reaction to Suzanne's pregnancy is dismissive, further compounding her struggles. Her privacy violated by the dormitory director's intrusion, Suzanne finds herself expelled for "unsuitability," a decision that uproots her life.

A Mother's Loss

After giving birth, Suzanne returns to Columbus with her daughters, seeking refuge with a family friend. However, her troubles intensify when Hampshire, unbeknownst to her, stalks and eventually commits an unspeakable act. While working at the law library, Suzanne is oblivious to Hampshire's sinister intentions until it's too late.

The Shocking Climax

Disguised as a graduate researcher, Hampshire gains entry to Suzanne's boardinghouse, where he fatally attacks her second daughter and himself. This devastating event leaves Suzanne in a state of despair, as she battles with her will to live amidst the silence imposed by those around her. The play closes with the present Suzanne acknowledging how these harrowing experiences fuel the violent imagery prevalent in her writing.

Layers of Insight

The narrative structure of The Ohio State Murders offers a complex interplay between past and present, allowing audiences to glimpse more than the young Suzanne ever could. The present Suzanne provides insights and revelations that deepen the tragedy, underscoring the systemic racism and personal betrayals she endured. This layering of knowledge builds dramatic tension, as the audience comprehends the full scope of what Suzanne went through.

Conclusion: A Story of Resilience

Ultimately, The Ohio State Murders is a poignant exploration of the intersection between race, personal tragedy, and artistic expression. Kennedy's work challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society’s impact on individual destinies. Through Suzanne’s story, the play asks its audience to reflect on the enduring consequences of prejudice and the resilience required to overcome it.