IRT presents play based on artist Frida Kahlo

Opening this week, the Indiana Repertory Theatre is presenting “Frida … A Self Portrait,” starring Brazilian artist Vanessa Severo. Onstage now through April 7 in the Upperstage Theatre, “Frida … A Self Portrait” is a theatrical storytelling experience exploring the common ground between Severo and the famous Mexican painter.& “Vanessa — like Frida — is a force,” Benjamin Hanna, Margot Lacy Eccles artistic director, said in a statement. “They both command our attention, push past perceived boundaries, and lead us to deeper truths about ourselves as artists and as consumers of art. It is an honor to produce this powerful piece and learn from the stories of these incredible women.” The presentation of “Frida … A Self Portrait” is a momentous occasion for both the Indiana Repertory Theatre and Severo. Not only is Severo the first Latine playwright to have her work produced at the IRT, but she is also one of the few actors with a disability to perform on the Indy-based theater’s stage. Since its initial production at the Living Room Theatre in 2014, Severo’s connection with Frida Kahlo has only gotten stronger, changing and growing as the playwright embarked on her own travels to Mexico City to...