Our Lady of 121st Street

Our Lady of 121^st Street

Signature Theatre

The Pershing Square Signature Center

May 5, 2018

Photo courtesy of Signature Theatre

The opening line of Our Lady of 121st Street asks, “What kind of world is this?”  Playwright Stephen Adly Guirgis then proceeds to show us a world of hurt, fear, guilt, and betrayal, juxtaposed with intimate care and sincere longing.  Mr. Guirgis’ characters are multi-layered and locked into life-long relationships based on intense, shared experiences.  Phylicia Rashad directs a phenomenal cast of actors in this Signature Theatre production.  Together they create a driving sense of urgency that propels the audience into a profound understanding of their existence and an insight into their desperate need for connection.

Joey Auzenne and John Proccino
Photo courtesy of Signature Theatre

Sister Rose’s death has strongly impacted the lives of the people in the Harlem community she served.  Mourners travel back to the neighborhood from all over the country to pay their respects, only to find that someone has stolen her body from the funeral home.  As they meet and talk, they face their shortcomings and denials while confessing their suppressed feelings.  For some, this becomes a healing transformation.  For others, it is another reason to sink deeper in despair.

Quincy Tyler Bernstine, Hill Harper, Dierdre Friel, & Kevin Isola
Photo courtesy of Signature Theatre

Every member of this ensemble builds truthful characters from Mr. Guirgis’ writing.  Hill Harper and Quincy Tyler Bernstine develop a fluid arc with the characters of Rooftop and Inez.  Their feelings of pain, betrayal, and sorrow erupt, shaking the foundation of their characters’ beliefs and propelling them forward.  Erick Betancourt and Maki Borden beautifully portray brothers trapped in layers of guilt and dependence.  When they meet Stephanie Kurtzuba’s character Marcia, sparks fly and opportunities for connection and change are abruptly shot down.  Jimonn Cole and Kevin Isola play a gay couple brutally facing their denial and inner selves.  Joey Auzenne is magnificent as Balthazar, a NYC Police Detective suffering under layers of pain and disappointment.  Powerful performances are also delivered by John Procaccino, John Doman, Paola Lazaro, and Dierdre Friel. 

Our Lady of 121^st Street is playing at the Pershing Square Signature Center through June 10.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza