“Men of Soul” Celebrates 50 Years of BET Excellence
By Cate Rees-Hessel
Jackie Taylor’s Black Ensemble Theater celebrates 50 years of incredible original musical entertainment with a stellar production of “Men of Soul”. Darryl Brooks has again created an amazing collection of popular music that is upbeat and well, very soulful. The set is simply elegant, with well crafted lighting and wonderful projections. I really like the fact that photos of the actual legends show various stages in their careers. An electronic version of an old-fashioned changeable letter marquee announces each legend being portrayed on the stage – it is a nice touch to the overall atmosphere. Costumes are tasteful with enough glitz and whimsey to satisfy any fashionista. The entire cast is marvelous, delivering extremely strong vocals and rapport. Mentions of Elvis, Janis Joplin, Jimmy Hendrix, and Amy Winehouse, and their tragic deaths due to drugs and alcohol bring light to the issues of addictions.
Many artists, both alive and gone, are highlighted in this musical masterpiece. This high energy production is extremely upbeat, enthusiastic, and fun. Black Ensemble favorites Dwight Neal and Vincent Jordan give spectacular performances. Mr. Neal brings class to any character he plays, very believable as Freddie Jackson and the legendary Luther Vandross with his beautiful singing voice and attractive stage presence. Mr. Jordan is completely versatile and realistic in his characterizations of Lionel Richie and Peabo Bryson (with a mention of Mr. Bryson’s recent passing) – his adept demeanor makes him a pleasure to watch.
In the roles of Ray Charles and Bobby Womack is another BET master, Jaitee Thomas – he gives a flawless performance, moving and believable. Tom Jones is brilliantly embodied by Michael J. Santos – his voice is spectacular; I have always been a fan of Sir Tom and Mr. Santos recreates him well. Michael’s Elton John is over the top but not not over played – Sir Elton would be proud of this portrayal.
Prince is brought to life by the very talented Maxel McLoud Schingen in the first act’s fabulous finale, and his El Debargе highlights a well executed portrayal of the Debarge family. Kevin Pollack plays legendary Billy Joel with professional ease and honors Mr. Joel’s courageous battle with depression, as well as giving Joe Cocker a down-to-earth pragmatism, complete with nervous energy due to Joe’s addictive issues. And Ben Woods immortalizes Billy Ocean with a genuine and authentic performance.
The show finale pays tribute to the immortal Bill Withers with a fabulous production number, dance moves well choreographed and energetic. The BET band, as we have come to expect, bring spectacular instrumentals to this magical musical production. No review of Men of Soul would be complete without mentioning the beautiful women of soul trio of Chloe Khaleeah Keira Johnson, Tamara Batiest, and Raeven Carroll, who give superb performances, including depictions of Diana Ross and Patti Labelle. All three ladies are lovely and consummate artists in their own right.
Musical numbers include classics such as “A Whole New World”, “Love Lifts Us Up”, “On the Wings of Love”, “Benny And The Jets”, “You Are My Lady”, “Purple Rain”, and “A Little Help From My Friends”, to name just a few. Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy the “Rhythm Of The Night” before Men of Soul closes on August 9th – go to www.blackensembletheater.org for tickets or more information.
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