“Twisted Melodies” Gives It Straight
By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel
Kelvin Roston Jr.’s one-man show on a day in the life of legend Donny Hathaway sums up his genius and demons in a brilliant work. This play hauntingly recreates the terrible beauty of a creative master struggling with mental illness. From his entrance, Mr. Roston is not on the stage, only Donny himself – that is the level of immersion for the entire show. In his flawless performance, Kelvin never falls into the trap of overacting or composite stereotype. Mr. Roston’s expansive range is shown in comedic moments like the fixing of a cassette which has done the dreaded spaghetti twist in the tape machine, through a magnificent build into dealing with the hallucinations and extreme fear his condition brought.
Kelvin sought the advice of a preeminent mental health expert for his characterization, and it is clearly demonstrated in the even-handed, outstandingly credible portrayal he delivers of the challenges and how it affects creativity, the fear and sadness that envelope the individual. The various pills spilled on the bed seem to signify the disarray the illness causes in one’s mind, as well as his fight with the effects of the numerous medications he was supposed to take. Hathaway’s paranoid schizophrenia led to suicide at the age of only 33; this production makes no judgement, helping to dispel the negative stigma of mental illness.
The seminal musical genius of Donny Hathaway and his faith in the Lord are clear, as well. He gets on his knees to pray with a Bible that stays on stage for most of the duration of the play; the strong influence of his gospel singer grandmother on his career is also quite clear. Mr. Roston’s vocal prowess and inspired keyboard work serve well to pay tribute to Donny’s signature voice and beloved music.
Intrinsically integrated effects add well to the drama: intriguing lighting including the chandelier, illuminating projections that help tell the story. Dramatic sound cues throughout also add to the atmosphere. For example, door knocking sounds are eerie and appropriately placed, an important part of the dramatic crescendo. The great costume and well-designed set, too, show the excellence we have come to expect from Northlight. The support of a beautiful member of Donny Hathaway’s family in the audience underscored the show’s authentic telling.
So much informative integral elements of Hathaway’s live are imparted: his time at Howard, his love for his daughters and wife, his professional relationship with Roberta Flack. Cued by the distinguished direction of living legend Ron OJ Parson, partnered with Kelvin’s also superb other half Alexis J. Roston as associate director, this exceptional theatrical masterpiece Mr. Roston also wrote brings one of the finest performances we have ever seen on stage. Powerful and poignant, this pure genius must not be missed – you only have until August 10th to witness this biographical brilliance; please go to northlight.org for tickets or more information.
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