Black Ensemble Theater’s “Blue” is Pure “Heaven”
Black Ensemble Theater’s “Blue” is Pure “Heaven”
By Anna Hessel
Black Ensemble’s production of “Blue Heaven” is a wonderful ninety minutes of musical theater, another great work brilliantly penned and directed by Producing Managing Director Daryl Brooks. Blues legends make a stop at “Pearly’s”, en-route to entering the gates of Heaven. Forgiveness of others and the self, especially, is served at this particular establishment. Each of the blues greats showcased have had their own personal hell to endure along the way, still keeping the sounds alive on their journeys. Every day they have the blues but endure they must. “There Must be a Better World Somewhere”, and just perhaps they finally have found it.
Once again BET pulls out all the stops – the show is excellent. A charming set, beautiful wigs, costumes, and fabulous music “Let the Good Times Roll”. The blues greats might be in Heaven but the music is still very much alive. The talented cast gives stellar performances: Black Ensemble favorite Dwight Neal reprises his role of Muddy Waters, giving a flawless and realistic performance. Making his BET debut is the very talented and handsome Billy Rude as Stevie Ray Vaughan – he plays the role with a sincere authenticity. Big Mama Thornton is brought to the stage by Micah Latham, a true beauty with a superb voice and adroit acting skills. Lyle Miller creates Howlin’ Wolf with verve and integrity, right down to his trademark full of gravel voice. Last, but in no way least, is Aaron Reese Boseman as the immortal B.B. King – Aaron is magnificent in his role.
No review of this exceptional theatrical work would be complete without mentioning the resplendent onstage musicians: bandleader and keyboardist Adam Sherrod, bassist Mark Miller, drummer Myron Cherry, and guitarist Oscar Brown Jr., who performs an amazing solo. “Blue Heaven” is a great big “Spoonful” of entertainment, so don’t miss your chance to sit in with these greats at Pearly’s. Since it only runs through November 27th, go see www.blackensembletheater.org for tickets or more information.
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