The Duplex

The Duplex is a play by Ed Bullins, a prominent American playwright associated with Black theatre in the 1960s. It is part of Bullins's "Twentieth-Century Cycle," a series of plays focusing on the experiences of young Black individuals in the 1950s.1

Bullins's work, including The Duplex, is characterized by naturalism, elements of Black nationalism, and explorations of interracial tension. His plays often depicted the realities and challenges faced by Black communities, reflecting the tenets of the Black Arts movement. The Harlem Renaissance also saw significant developments in Black drama, with playwrights debating the purpose and subject matter of their work, aiming to present authentic Black experiences and overcome damaging stereotypes.12