Playwright Tony Kushner takes the delicate subject of Civil
Rights in the ’60s and delivers an anthem that has been sung many
times
– but
”
Caroline, Or Change
”
comes through loud and clear, facing the race issue that
prevailed at that time.
Playwright Tony Kushner takes the delicate subject of Civil Rights in the ’60s and delivers an anthem that has been sung many times – but “Caroline, Or Change” comes through loud and clear, facing the race issue that prevailed at that time. Taken from experiences of his childhood, Kushner weaves a story about the life of the working class black man in Louisiana and a contrast between the home life of his family and Caroline’s.
Noah Gellman (Julian Hornik), the lonely 9-year-old son, finds comfort and understanding from Caroline. His mother recently died, his father (Ryan Drummond) has remarried and has withdrawn, leaving Noah to feel as though he is an afterthought. His stepmother Rose (Eileen Tepper), tries to win the boy’s affection while applying discipline, which only widens the space between them.
Caroline is reaching 40 and a single mother of three; she ekes out a living to support her brood. Through the years she has become tough and bitter with her lot but continues to work for the Gellmans (a Jewish white family), as a maid in a house with many unresolved issues. C. Kelly Wright gives the performance of her life as Caroline and her music reaches the soul of the listener. This is one lady who is a true star and we are fortunate enough to experience a sample of this extraordinary talent.
Valisia LaKee, as her rebellious, optimistic daughter Emmy, gives a confidant, creditable performance. Allison Blackwell lends a fine voice as both the singing washing machine and Dotty, Caroline’s friend bent on bettering herself by going to night school. James Monroe Iglehart as the swinger dryer is in magnificent voice and Anise Rirchie as the moon offers beautiful moments. There isn’t a weak member in this cast.
Lighting, sets and sound follow the rest of this outstanding production.
William Liberatore conducts the fine orchestra with his usual flawlessness delivery.
As usual, Director Robert Kelly brings in perfection. He has the ability to bring out the best in his cast, and digs deep to bring the depth of the plot to the surface. “Caroline, Or Change” is no exception.
“Caroline, Or Change” is a magnificent and unique experience. The story is not that unique, but it should be seen to better understand times past and perhaps better understand times present, even with all the changes from then to now. Not too much plot has been revealed in this review because the audience must see, hear and feel the story to come to their own conclusions. “Caroline, Or Change” takes the audience on a journey into a remarkable musical/drama – a journey that anyone who enjoys fine theater should take.
