I had the pleasure to see #Gleam at @CENTERSTAGE_MD last evening. My take on this wonderful play….Christiana Clark and Brooks Edward Brantly were magnificent, bringing to life Zora Neale Hurston’s characters with an authenticity full of power, lust, and playfulness that encapsulates the images derived when reading the classic novel. Our narrator Stephanie Barry captivated the audience with her warm and motherly tone setting the scene for the night’s journey back to Florida in the early 1900’s. Axel Avin, Jr. portrayed an honest representation of the “siddity” negro of the time, giving viewers an insight into what has become a longstanding issue in the Black Community - still prevalent today.The supporting cast Gavin Lawrence, Erik LaRay Harvey, and Jaime Lincoln Smith added comical relief and context to enchant and enrich the scenes with the a sense of community. Kudos to Tonia M. Jackson and Celeste Jones for adding tension, familiarity, and satire to the production. Lastly, Thomas Jefferson Byrd had the entire crowd in enthralled with his hilarious undertaken of his unassuming and weathered character.
Thank you director, Marion McClinton, for staging such an inspiring story and to the entire stage crew for transporting us back to a world, not too far in the distant, yet often forgotten past.
If you are looking for a truthful adaptation of Hurston’s classic go see Gleam you will not be disappointed!!
Again congratulations and thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Sincerely,
Reuel Belt
Aspiring Creator
p.s. Another special treat was the pre-discussion with lecturer, Dr. Ruthe Sheffey, renowned Zora Neal Huston authority. Dr. Sheffey’s introduction into the life of Hurston gave great insight to the writings of Hurston. And for those of us lucky enough to attend you felt like you were in the room with Hurston’s bestfriend or sister. Sitting nearby as Dr. Sheffey recounted tales of Hurston’s trials, tribulations, and travels (as well as several marriages). Artistic director Kwame Kwei-Armah and Promotions Director Charisse Nichols have set a high-bar for this year’s CenterStage productions. A bar which I am certain they will soar over!!
Mark Fetting and Legg Mason should also receive a round of applause for continuing to support the arts and sponsoring important cultural events that help to invigorate and inspire Baltimore’s citizens.
