Black Angels Over Tuskegee Pass The Test

You would think the loss an actor as skilled and gifted as Demetrius Grosse would hurt any production. Indeed, his abscence was fully noted in last night's performance of Black Angels Over Tuskegee. The play took on a less energetic demeanor without his bounce and flair. Nonetheless, thanks to some nifty script changes by the plawright and the superior acting abilities of the remaining angels, the play is still as absorbing and compelling.

The reason that the loss of a mega-talent like Demetrius didn't kill this play has everything to do the outstanding teamwork--as a whole these brothers' chemistry works! Playright Layon Gray is no acting slouch himself--what a powerhouse!!!

Gray's sturdy storyline is fortified by a magnetic acting of a truly charismatic cast of actors who keep you totally involved and engaged to the very end. The hypnotically engaging, Thadeus Daniels as narrator silver lines the production. Applause abounds and tears fall as the evocative Daniels speaks to his son near the end of Black Angels.

Once again, I heard people gush at the end of Black Angels. Many commented, "what a great show, " even to people they didn't know (pretty impressive for New York City). One man turned to me and said, "I cried, I laughed and I got inspired."

Who wouldn't be impressed with super talents such as Thom Scott II and David Wendell Boykins. Both of these accomplished actors enrich the play by flawlessly executing and inhabiting their roles. Scott's studied fluidity is deceptively disarming. His energy keeps the audience's pulse high and makes him and instant a favorite in the play.

Boykins is especially effective in using wide-eyed and animated facial expressions to generate the perfect emotional pitch and aura for the moment. In addition to his uncanny ability to convey thunderous anger, Boykins is also masterful at lightening the heavy moments and has remarkable depth and range which allow him to capture the sensitivity of all the men on stage. (Boyins's talents are not limited to the stage as he is listed in the playbill under ligting design)

Of note, Melvin Huffanagle in the role of Jerimah, the Back Angel most affceted by Jim Crow, brings edge and emotional intensity to the storyline. I heard one woman tell him after the show,"you really play the hell out of that character." Gotta love New Yorkers!

My only regret is that this richly textured play, which brings to life an inspirational and important story about African American culture is not being seen and supported by a wider audience. Too bad! Black Angels Over Tuskegee is not expensive and as good or better than some highly overpriced Broadway shows. I am sure you will agree if you see it.

Black Angels Over Tuskegee is playing at the St. Lukes Theatre 308 W.46th st. Manhattan between 8th and 9th avenues.

Man This Sucks: Losing One of the ScottsBoro Boys

Everything must change, as the song goes. But why this change! (Okay-there I said it. Had to get the frustration out on this bitterseweet moment). In case you didn't know, Brandon Victor Dixon is leaving the leading role ScottsBoro Boys to play the lead role in the new and upcoming Ray Charles broadway musical, Unchain My Heart

Hey--as I said in a previous blog there is no stopping this super talented brother from rising. But it hurts to see him, of all people, leave the Scottsboro Boys. Dixon's fiery intensity, accomplished dance and acting skills, and soulful singing voice made him a perfect Haywood Patterson. His passion and sensitivity informed that role--he owned it. NO ONE will ever be quite like the original. I really hope that the upcoming soundtrack (a rumor at this point) will feature his vocals.

For those of you who did not get the opportunity to see him maybe its for the best because you wil not have to live with the knowledge of what you are missing should this musical ever rise again.

I will always cherish the memory of Dixon's tears at the last show of the ScottsBoro Boys and the way he hit the stage with his hand in triunphant victory as if to say, "YES! I DID IT." (A personal thank you Julie for those tickets to the last show!!!!)


On a personal note, how I wish that whole nonsense about "not being able to find a theatre for this production" was solved earlier--maybe he would not have had to move on.

Okay, I know this was more of a lamentation than a reflection but this guy is the truth! Let's pray that they find the right guy to fill these gargantuan shoes. On the bright side, kudos to Dixon who will undoubetdly excel in the role of Ray Charles on Broadway this Spring.

Blessings to you on the new venture Brandon Victor Dixon and thanks for all you did with the ScottsBoro Boys. You touched our souls. We will miss you!

A Night of Divine Inspiration: All Star Gospel Concert Carnegie Hall

Hosted by Rev. A.R.Bernard and Soledad O' Brien(CNN), and under the direction of Ray Chew, last night's Night of Inspiration gospel concert electrified a jam packed Carnegie Hall. My fears of being disappointed by the "bigger is better" glitz and glamor approach so often used by musical concert promoters quickly vanished under a seemingly relentess stream of superb vocal and spoken word performances. Vivan and Ray Chew (Chew Entertainment) deserve high marks for orchestrating and managing such a resoundingly successful, star-studded line up at Carnegie Hall.

A gifted musical director, Ray Chew has a dignified, commanding presence. His confident yet sensitive approach showed in his seamless handling of the performances that evening. It didn't matter if was an individual performer, member of the choir, or the symphonic orchestra, Chew was always "in the moment" or one step ahead in meeting their needs. His expert arrangement and innovative leadership were evident in how this night unfloded.


The concert opened with a group of teenagers dressed in black and white, shirts fashionably out of the pants, marching out in dramatic fashion. Some stood in the aisles, others positioned themselves directly in front of the orchestra. In unsion, they put on an energentic a capella, adrenanlin pumping step show. And the concert skyrocketed from this point on, with one mega star immediately following another, culminating in a "we-are-the-world" all-star gospel chorus finale.

At different times during certain performaces, I had the distinct feeling that Carnegie Hall was literally rocking in response to the explosive combination of crescendo-ing music, roaring crowd, and deafening applause. I wondered if this was some ingenious architectural-sound-engineeering wizadry unique to Carnegie Hall to accomodate for the reverberations of large bands and audiences located on so many tiers within the building. Upon mentioning my observation to some folks at the after party, I was chided for not recognizing that the building had in fact "caught the Holy Spirit" (LOL).


The souful baritione sound of Michael McDonald, the very first artist to perform, certanly soothed my sprit that evening...the lyrics of his song, "taking it to the Streets seemed fitting.... (MORE TO COME)

Soul Be Free A Must Read

Rev. Alfonso and his wife Ouida Wyatt's latest book, Soul Be Free is a fast read. But don't let that fool you. These two artful authors write like they speak--with a graceful fluidity and deceptively seductive ease. The Wyatts' thoughtful exploration of what it means to be human and how purpose and meaning infuence our perceptions, emotions, choices and behaviors is illuminating. I often had to put Soul Be Free down for a minute to reflect and pray. That's the power of this hynotically inviting work written by two master poets, ministers and souls capable and anonited to help souls be free.

To purchase Soul Be Free visit: wwww.flipkart.com/book/soul-free-alfonso-wyatt-ouida/1932842381

About Rev. Alfonso Wyatt: www.nblca.org/allaffiliates/wyatt.htm

Black Angels Over Tuskegee: I Believe I Can Fly

Good news! Playwright Layon's Gray's superbly acted and entertaining play, Black Angels Over Tuskegee has been extended until June 2010. If you haven't seen it, please check it out. You won't be disappointed.

Having seen the Black Angels a couple of times, I have become more appreciative of what men of color had to endure in the early days of the Air Force. A memorable line in the play occurs in the second act when the frustrated Angels say they will never be allowed to go home or train white pilots.

Thanks to this play, I more fully appreciate the journey and significance of men like Lloyd "fig " Newton, an African American, retired four star general, and Commander of Air Education and Training Command headquartered at Randolph Air Force Base--- responsible for 13 bases and training over 43, 000 active duty members. Wow-wonder what the Black Angels would have thought of him.

In 1974, Newton became the first black man to fly with the elite Thunderbirds, the Air Force's demonstration team-- that is, after having been rejected 3 times! Newton states that many people tried to discourage him. But, I suppose, like the Black Angels, he never gave up. His tenacity certainly paid off. Not only was he later invited to be a senior military advisor for the Obama administration, Newton was also selected as to be a 2009 White House Fellow--only 11 to 19 of the thousands of applications are accepted for this highly coveted and prestigious fellowship.

Gotta tell you-had it not been for Black Angels, I probably would not have known much about Newton. This is one of the reasons I love the theatre. Education is key, as the Black Angels remind us often in the play. No where is this more evident than when the talented David Wendell Boykins, in the role of Theodore, earnestly says that he just wants to do his "best".

So, if you are impressed with Newton's story, then you will be certainly be impressed and perhaps feel a sense of pride after seeing Black Angels Over Tuskegee --a rich and enagaging story of a group of six trailblazing fighter pilots who paved the way for men like Newton.

Please don't miss the stellar performances by the six amazing actors, not to mention the outstanding narration by Thadeus Daniels(Law and Order).

Black Angels is now playing at St. Lukes Theatre, 308 W. 46th between 8th and 9th avenues. 212-239-6300, http://www.telecharge.com/

Review By The Black Art & Entertainment Whisperer

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3 Mo Divas Rock Da' House for One Night Only

Last night three sassy, sultry and soulful divas full of feminity and attitude gave a command performance in Queens, New York at the Colden Center for the Performoning Arts. They were so awesome they received a standing ovation before the finale. Who could sit down. We clapped, laughed, sang along, tapped our feet, had a lttle church, and clapped again-- all night long. I couldn't believe that we were at intermission so quickly and was shocked that they had sung so many songs by the time the show was over. You could hear a collective groan from the audience when they realized that the show was over.

I knew there was no turning back when one of the divas jumped on the piano and banged out a song and tune. The accompanying musicians were simply phenomenal in their ability to sync with the divas. There is not a single boring moment in this show--not possible with these powerhouse performances. Hey, even if you are not into the singing you would be captivated by the charisma and sexy stage presence. I even liked that Italian stuff they sang in the beginning though I didn't understand a single word. These women are so talented they could hum all night and no one would complain.

Clearly, the guy sitting behind me had no complaints as he incessantly bellowed out the tunes with the divas. Finally, I had to give him the dude-you-will- B flat if-you-keep-singing-over-the- divas-look. He caught my stare and said "whassup " with a dash of attitude. Pointing to the prorgam, I whispered, " Bro, its 3 Mo Divas not 4-- so chill with the backround vocals or get up on the stage". After a brief moment of silence, we both laughed. As I turned back around to enjoy the show, however, I suddenly realized how un smart it might have been to irritate a fairly large man seated directly behind me for the next couple of hours. I did momentarily worry he if would smack my head or blow my brains out--afterall this is New York-LOL.

Seriously though, my only complaint was that this spectacular performance was a "one night only" event. This performance was fitting of the Apollo Theatre, Lincoln Center, and Carnegie Hall. I am sure it would be well supported by New Yorkers. 3 Mo' Divas also would have been a perfect Mother's Day Show. (Thank God Black Angels Over Tuskegee is still here in town). In any case, be sure to pick up their DVD on line so mom and the family can enjoy!!

The BAW gives 3 Mo Divas a 10/10. Worth the crazy ride out to Queens and worth every penny. Can't tell the last time I saw an audience so happy and effusive. Check it out on line. http://3modivas.com/

Black Angels Over Tuskegee: Hey Cut That Out!

As a black male, I am not one for the touchy feely, cry baby stuff--at least not in public, LOL. But this "freakin" play caused a tear or two to fall --twice! It is so well acted and the characters so well developed it is impossible not to become fully absorbed and invested in the lives of these powerful men. How refreshing to see a play that makes room for the spirit of love and brotherhood to unfold-- and catch fire-- among some highly educated, courageous, and strong-willed black brothers who were previously strangers. I believe most men long for the kind of connection, camraderie and fraternity with other men this play so skillfully articulates. As one friend jokingly said to me after seeing Black Angels, "The brotherly connection, partcularly between the two brothers Quinton(Layon Gray), and Abe(Thomas Scott II) was kinda getting to me. I felt like saying to them,' hey, cut that out'."

Layon Gray's Black Angels Over Tuskegee is currently playing at the St. Lukes Theatre (and yes it looks like a church just go down the steps) on W.46st between 8th and 9th avenues in Manhattan.

The BAW gives this solid play a 9/10. Superb acting by highly talented African American men. Inspirational, and truly worth seeing!!!

A Quiet Strength: The ScottsBoro Mothers

"...in quietness and confidence shall be your strength... (Isaiah 30:15, KJV)


In ScottsBoro Boys the charismatic Sharon Washington plays a mysterious female. We see her in the opening scene as an older, African American woman sitting on a sidewalk bench facing the audience. She appears to be waiting on a ride. Plainly dressed, poised, and self contained, Washington embodies the quiet strength, dignity and enduring power of the African American woman. She clutches her chest as a drum thumps in the background. Though she has almost no lines in the play, her strong, quiet presence is striking. As the ScottsBoro Boys enter, they all acknolwedge her, paying hommage either through touch, bow, or tip of the hat. (We discover why all this reverence at the very end).

Throughout the musical, Washington appears in the background, mostly as a silent witness to the indignities and atrocities the Scottsboro Boys encounter. When the boys are stripped for delousing she picks up the clothes from the floor deliberately and carefully. Her meticulous handling of the clothing restores a measure of dignity and humanity to the humiliation of this shame-filled moment.

The guilty verdict is handed to her after it has been read aloud. She takes it and clutches it close to her heart. Undoubtedly, she represents the African American mothers, wives, and grandmothers who were also "handed the verdict" for Scottsoboro Boys. It is easy to overlook how silenced, powerless and grieved those ScottsBoro Mothers were. Washington's quiet presence in the backdrop of several cruicial scenes effectively serves as a haunting reminder that mothers were also "imprisoned" and endured in spirit along side their sons. As a Christian, I couldn't help but reflect on the biblcal account of the crucifixion where the male disciples reportedly fled the scene and only women followed quietly--from a distance. Some biblical scholars argue that women were less likey to be arrested than men back then. Ironically, I surmise the same reasons might have applied during the time of the ScotssBoro Boys.

No where is the spiritual intimacy the mother-son connection more palpable than when Haywood Patterson (Brandon Vincent Dixon ), after refusing to lie in order to receive the governor's pardon, is sentenced to life in prison. In response, Haywood sings, "You can't do me like you done me before," as he closes his eyes and does a soft-peddle dance signifying psychological liberation. Quietly, the shadowy, yet faithful, maternal presence in the distance leaves her seat and mirrors his soft dance. How captivating to watch this unjustly imprisoned, incorruptible son, tragically separated from his mother, re-unite with her through "a dance of sorrows". I was reminded of the biblical phrase from the Book of Lamentations: " The joy of our heart is ceased. Our dancing has turned into mourning. (Lam 5:15, KJV) ."

At the very end of this extraordinary piece of musical theatre, the voiceless, nameless, mystery woman returns to her seat facing the audience. Only this time she appears to be on a bus. When approached by the driver who demands that she move to the back of the bus, Washington finally breaks her silence. She tells the driver of how "tired" she is (we grasp that the use of the term "tired" refers as much to the appalling social injustice we have witnessed as to her aching feet). She refuses to give up her seat --and the rest, as we know, is history.

Motivated to read up on Rosa Parks after seeing the ScottsBoro Boys, I came across a book this winner of the Congressional Medal of Honor and mother of the modern day Civil Rights Movement had written. It was aptly titled: Quiet Strength: The Faith, the Hope , the Heart of a Woman Who Changed the Nation.

Washington's piercing portrayal rekindled my deepest respect and admiration for Rosa Parks.

No doubt, the BAE Whisperer is now also a huge admirer of Sharon Washington. She is a highly accomplished award winning actress, and an accomplished audio book narrator--obvioulsy the real thing. Her silent yet undeniable presence among the ScottsBoro Boys demands your full attention. I never knew you could do so much with silence. Washington is a gradute of the Yale School of Drama (but of course, lol) and has numerous stage, televison and film credits. Be sure to check out her website: http://www.sharonwashington.com/

ScottsBoro Boys: Blows My Mind

This is the first in series of reflections and reviews I plan to write on black theatre, dance, poetry, artistry, and film. Feeling unqualified, I resisted the urge to write anything in this regard but am now inspired based on the encouragement and urging of a friend who has been after me to take a stab at blogging my thoughts in the hope that more folks would come out and support these amanzing yet largely unknown works. You should be warned: I am neither a professional critic nor a conniseur of the performing arts-- but have been acccused of being an aficionado. I prefer the term "whisperer", however, because of my inexplicably profound connection with the Arts--a connection that has healed and fulfilled me in the deep, private place and expanded me in ways I had never imagined. Moreover, I have witnessed masterful works, emanating from African American peforming arts circles, come and go quietly--too quietly and unnoticed. Hence the need, I suppose, for a black Art & Entertainment Whisperer (LOL).

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Last night at the Vineyard Theatre in New York, I saw the final performance of a provocative and cutting edge play, the ScottsBoro Boys-- the tragic true story of nine black men falsely accused and imprisoned for the alleged rape of two white women in Alabama in the 1930's.

I was immediately drawn into the complex weave of this hauntingly beautiful and evocative work of genius --that seamlessly blended song, dance, humor and minstrelcy to deliver a theatrical "sucker punch" to the unsuspecting. And what a punch it packed! LOL

The first time around I just had to get out of the theater right after the show -my adrenalin was running too high. I was ripped up about what had happened to those nine men and kinda freaked out by the life -sized Scottsboro Boys newspaper poster I had ignored in the lobby on my way in.

This musical challenged me to hold two opposing emotional states at once. Imagine actually clapping after lynching, jailing, and electric chair scenes. Not that I approved--but the sheer brillance of the director and impeccable delivery by the performers (which was off da hook) demanded acknowledgement. A surreal experience to say the least--kinda like drinking a nasty cough syrup flavored with cherry aftertaste that strangely makes you want more.

The ScottsBoro Boys' intoxicating brew of black history, human suffering, blatant racism, unwavering courage, black masculinity, and artistic senstivity was indeed addicting. I saw it nine times. African Americans-- particularly black men will resonate with many of the underlying themes. I was reminded of all the times in my own life where I wore a mask, felt shackeled, or unfairly treated. Equally disturbing was the revelation that I have been disconnected from my history. I knew so little of the ScottsBoro Boys until this musical performance.

The individual performances in this play were spellbinding. These performers were the show! Colman Domingo (Passing Strange, Boy & His Soul) was just bananas--what amazing acting skill and range! Colman has a unique way of looking into right into the soul of an audience. He is a master of the craft. Brandon Victor Dixon (The Color Purple) was equally riveting and engaging --he just seemed to channel Haywood Patterson.

Brandon's tears in this last performance sealed my impression that he is "the truth" --and headed for greatness if given more opportunities to shine. In fact, several of the actors dried their tears as they receieved a resounding final standing ovation from the largely white audience. (I couldn't help but wonder where was the black viewership--I never saw more than five black people in the audience at any of the shows).

Realizing that this was a final show, I asked myself what happens to these highly talented black male actors now. Where do these "ScottsBoro boys" go from here?

Rumor has it that they will be going to Broadway. I wonder about how long it will last. Like Passing Strange this is a hard hitting, thought provoking, probing musical that doesn't rely on the sing along, "happy ending" that typifies so many Broadway plays. Nonetheless, it absolutely deserves to be on Broadway.

My only regret was that I couldn't stick around to tell the cast how fantatstic they were and how blessed I was by the performance. (Had to jet to W. 46 st, The St. Lukes Theatre, to check out another play, Black Angels Over Tuskegee. )

I hope in future bloggings to bring you profiles and direct "whisperer interviews" with some of the artists and producers of these amazing works. Wish me luck!

The BAE Whisperer gives the ScottsBoro Boys a 10/10. Worth every second. Worth every penny! Kudos to the Vineyard Theatre for hosting such a powerful production.