You only have this weekend to see one of the most powerful performances of the season in the Rhode Island premiere of Lolita Chakrabarti’s equally powerful “Red Velvet”.

Brown/Trinity MFA student Jaquan Malik Jones plays Ira Aldridge, a 19th century Black actor who is brought into London’s Covent Garden Theatre to become the first Black actor to play the role of Othello.

The American born actor had been working in small theatres in Europe before being introduced to his fellow cast members by Pierre, his French friend and theatre director.

Wait until you see and hear their reactions!

Ira is an overpowering, passionate actor. The weak, over-dramatic cast is no match for his talents.

Unfortunately, it is 19th century England, and the white, middle-class society is not ready for a Black actor, even though Othello was Black.

My God, they have finally allowed women to play female roles. Isn’t that enough progress for the theatre world?

To make matters worse, Aldridge is playing opposite a white woman (Alison Russo). And he touches her. Even gives her bruises on her arms!

Chakrabarti’s dialogue is crisp and fresh, as she works in the prejudices, both subtle and blatant, that exist by the actors, critics. (They are especially not treated well) and audiences.

Amid the chaos stands Ira Aldridge, brilliantly and passionately played by Jaquan Malik Jones, an actor that I predict will have a long and successful career in the theatre.

Jones puts his heart and soul into his role, working fervently to win over his fellow actors, attempting to pass his passion on to them, succeeding only with the conflicted Ellen.

While the play takes place many years ago, we realize that many of the prejudices voiced are still with us.

“He’ll take your jobs,” one actor shouts, fighting any many of diversity in the all-white theatre company.

“Red Velvet”, like Shakespeare’s “Othello”, is a tragedy. It’s powerful ending is not as tragic as as Shakespeare’s, but it is poignant, and beautifully played by Jones, who appeared exhausted following his masterful performance.

Credit to the excellent ensemble, directed by Jackie Davis. Playing bad Shakespeare can be as challenging as playing good Shakespeare.

“Red Velvet” runs through June 19, with two performances on Sunday., at Burbage Theatre, 59 Blackstone Ave., Pawtucket. For reservations, call 484-0355. Tickets are at a premium.