Review: One More River to Cross from James Jackson & Pulley and Buttonhole Theatre Company

Dramatists Play Service summarizes One More River to Cross: A Verbatim Fugue: Between 1936 and 1938, the Federal Writers’ Project gathered over 2,300 interviews with former slaves. Pulitzer-winner Lynn Nottage has collected and condensed these interviews into a theatrical exploration of the history of slavery in the United States. By resurrecting these slaves’ stories onstage, Nottage resurrects the voices of people who for so many years had none, and she creates a space for the contemplation of the enduring effects of slavery in America.  Producers James Jackson and Pulley and Buttonhole Theatre Company are presenting this piece until June 11th at The Latvian Society on 6th and Spring Garden.

Featuring 4 narrative actors (Beatrice Alonna, Kareem “Doc” Carpenter, Kamili Feelings and Sara Osi Scott) and an ensemble representing a Greek chorus. James Jackson, also director, attempted to bring to life Greek Theatre by utilizing said chorus to sing and dance their way through interpretations of the narratives. This concept, although admirable, fell flat and would have perhaps been better portrayed a true dance company. Several of the chorus members lacked dance technique as well as more had musical issues with tempo and tone. LaTasha Morris is credited as Music Director and Sanchel Brown for Choreography and Karen Smith for Rhythm.

Unfortunately, I am unable to identify the three strong dancers in the ensemble as the program only had two headshots with biographies. It would have been nice to pay respect to these three as they truly brought forth integrity to the piece.The narrative actors performed on a make shift stage while the chorus performed below them on the ground level. At times, the staging of the narrative actors had them sitting on the stage, thereby being blocked by the chorus in front. They had very little room to really act out their plight.

The additional use of mask work by Meredith Boring was a nice touch and attempted to create authenticity, however when the chorus spoke or sang, their vocals were muddled as the masks were covering most mouths. They seemed more of an art piece than something of function.The production was a full 120 minutes with no intermission. I’d be remiss not to mention the tight and uncomfortable seating. Thankfully, there weren’t many people the night I attended and was able to utilize two seats. My comrade is over 6 feet and had trouble with leg room. I would suggest one less seat per row as to space out and perhaps provide some more leg room.

Not credited in the program but acknowledge during the curtain speech was Harry Wilson who provided pre-show entertainment on his electric guitar.

INFORMATION

James Jackson + Pulley and Buttonhole Theatre Company

One More River to Cross

May 26-June 11

The Latvian Society of Philadelphia
http://www.pulleyandbuttonholetheatre.org/