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.