Upper School Examines Human Dynamics Through "Broke-ology"

A Kansas City, Kansas, native, Jackson passed away in 2023 at the age of 44. He graduated from Kansas State University before earning a Master of Fine Arts degree from Juilliard School in New York City. In “Broke-ology,” Jackson explores family dynamics in the context of economic class and race. While the play’s characters experience difficulties such as social expectations, different educational and aspirational goals and the illness of a loved one, there is a strong undercurrent of family love and loyalty.

Barstow welcomed Jackson’s widow, Megan Moscorro-Jackson, for a Q&A session with upper school students on Friday, Feb. 28. Taking questions from a panel and from the audience, Megan shared details about Jackson’s childhood that show up as conversations and character traits throughout the play. Many of the play’s details, such as a game of dominos or a refrigerator that freezes anything left on the top shelf, were taken directly from Jackson’s childhood home and community. According to Megan, whose background and career is in Theatre, it’s important for writers, playwrights and artists to create based on who they are as a way to foster connection with others, whose life experiences may look completely different.

“Broke-ology” provides a window into Jackson’s life, family and the culture in which he grew up. Through his characters, he shows the intricacies of figuring out one’s purpose as an individual as well as part of a family and community.