*Rave reviews are in order for the Robey Theatre, who recently completed their production of Colored People’s Time: A History Play by Leslie Lee. Director Ben Guillory cracks open a time capsule filled with brilliant actors who travel from the end of the Civil War, to the beginnings of the Jim Crow era.
What a ride it is as audiences experience the journey from Buckra, South Carolina in 1870, then skip over to 1926 Harlem to Montgomery, Alabama 1954, with several stops in between.
Each scenario in Colored People’s Time reeks of faith over fear, determination over despair and sheds a glorious light on the audacious nature of Colored folks who still find love, humor and music despite their struggles. This is an equally footed excellent ensemble piece. Kudos to all who donned the stage.
However, Kimberly Bailey’s “Ida” and Jah Shams’ “Walter” are stand out performances. Through them the audience is drawn into the home of an older couple during the Montgomery bus boycott. It’s a reality check for the miles walked, the blistered tired feet and the bewildered but not broken spirit. Yet ultimately there was sweltering in their souls for the high cost and commitment of just being treated as humans on fair and equal terms in a system not intended for them to thrive. Kimberly and Jah demonstrate award worthy artistry.
Scroll to continue reading
Every moment in Colored People’s Time is a cultural awakening and a current reckoning that time has passed, and the past is revisited in the present time. Outstanding performances were also rendered by James Lawson II, Autumn Renae, Phillip Bell, Enisha Brewster, Kermit C. Burns, Darrell Philip, and Cydney Wayne Davis.
Leslie Lee (1930-2014) was a prolific playwright who also wrote for film and television. His play “The First Breeze of Summer” was nominated for a Tony® Award. His television film “Born to Trouble: Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” was nominated for a Writers Guild Award. Mr. Lee also wrote for the daytime drama “Another World” as well as many other plays. Colored People’s Time debuted off-Broadway in 1982.
The Robey Theatre Company Producing Artistic Director is Ben Guillory. Associate Producer and graphic designer is Jenny Cadena. Production Manager is David Bollar. Assistant stage manager and sound design is by Crystal Nix. Music supervisor and composer is Cydney Wayne Davis. For more on the Robey Theatre team click here. The Robey Theatre Company was founded by Ben Guillory and Danny Clover. Advanced scene study and a playwright’s lab are also available in addition to the company’s stellar line up of live theatre. For more on that visit The Robey Theatre Company.
(If You Like/Appreciate This EURweb Story, Please SHARE it!)
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Review: Table 17 Captures Love and Loss
We Publish Breaking News 24/7. Don’t Miss Out! Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
