Boston’s Theater District abuzz over Chris Rock’s first two shows

BOSTON, Mass. — Boston’s Theater District became a spectacle Wednesday night for comedian Chris Rock’s first two shows since being slapped at the Oscars.

Rock took the stage at the Wilbur at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. for the opening night of his six-show set.

The line that formed down Tremont onto Stuart Street ahead of both sold out shows was still abuzz over what happened on Sunday night.

Some purchased tickets after the Oscars just for the opportunity to see Rock on stage in Boston.

“We bought them only 6 hours ago,” said Tony Speranzella. “We can’t miss this. This is a not miss event!”

Many people in line told Boston 25 News they paid hundreds of dollars to be part of the action.

“I would love to talk to him personally about alopecia, I would love to educate Chris Rock a little more,” said Chrissa Kaselis, with the National Alopecia Areata Foundation

Kaselis told Boston 25 News she is a huge Chris Rock fan and was not personally offended by what he said on stage at the Oscars.

Will Smith slapped Rock after the comedian made a joke about the actor’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, who previously revealed she has alopecia.

“Jada, I love you. ‘G.I. Jane 2,’ can’t wait to see it,” Rock said while presenting the award for best documentary feature, comparing Pinkett Smith to Demi Moore’s “G.I. Jane” character, who had a buzz cut in the 1997 film.

“It’s very difficult not just for the person who has alopecia but for all their loved ones,” explained Kaselis. “I do feel bad if it’s really fresh for Jada Pinkett Smith. I understand.”

The joke that escalated into the shocking on stage moment was also addressed by black faith leaders in Boston.

“This issue draws to our attention the underreported reality of black on black violence, not only in the city of Boston but across the nation,” Rev. Kevin Peterson, Founder of The New Democracy Coalition.

Reverend Peterson called Sunday’s incident a “teachable moment” and hopes others will see it as just that.

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