A Man of No Importance

 A Man of No Importance
Classic Stage Company
December 17, 2022 

Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

The Classic Stage Company production of A Man of No Importance is stunning and heartwarming.  It is based on the 1994 film of the same title.  The book, by Terrance McNally, delves into the characters and weaves them into emotional connections that forever change their outlooks.  The music, by Stephen Flaherty, creates an atmosphere that draws you in.  You feel part of this close-knit community.  Lynn Ahrens lyrics propel the action forward by deepening the awareness of the character’s inner lives.  John Doyle directed and designed the production to flow seamlessly and fill the space with poetry, passion, and tenderness.

It is the 1960’s in Dublin Ireland.  Alfie Byrnes (played by Jim Parsons) is a conductor for Dublin’s public transportation system, collecting tickets and reciting poetry to his passengers.  When he is told by Father Kenny (played by Nathaniel Stampley) that his theatre production of Oscar Wilde’s Salome cannot take place in the church hall because of its immoral content, it sends him into a period of self-reflection.  He sees himself as a man of no importance.  He thinks back to the day he decided to move forward with his idea of directing Salome with his little theatre troupe.  Adele Rice (played by Shereen Ahmed) boards his bus for the first time.  She looks like an exotic princess to Alfie, so he convinces her to accept the role of Salome.  Alfie’s sister, Lily (played by Mare Winningham) is happy to hear Alfie talk about Miss Rice.  She feels this might be Alfie’s chance to find happiness, get married, and settle down.  She does not know about Alfie’s secret attraction to Robbie Fay (played by A.J. Shively), the driver on Alfie’s route, who is cast as John the Baptist in the play.  As the production of Salome comes under scrutiny, Alfie faces the truth about himself and his “love that cannot speak its name,” and finds more acceptance that he expected. 

A.J. Shively & Jim Parsons
Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

The story poetically unravels with simple honesty, which reflects the setting and time period.  The characters are all very well developed and beautifully performed.  Jim Parsons is grounded and tranquil as Alfie Byrne.  The character is committed to poetry, theatre, and the works of Oscar Wilde.  He cannot imagine why anyone would not be open and enthusiastic about experiencing and creating art.  Mr. Parsons portrays this character with genuine sincerity and conviction.  Mare Winningham is endearing as his siter Lily.  She supports her brother and pushes him to find happiness and love.  She is shocked when Alfie’s truth is revealed, yet she stands by him when he needs her most.  A.J. Shively is suave and outgoing as Robbie Fay.  He portrays the character as an average man seeking adventure in his day to day life in Dublin.  His friendship with Alfie is touching.

Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

There are equally amazing performances by Shereen Ahmed, Alma Cuervo, Kara Mikula, Da’Von T. Moody, Mary Beth Peil, Thom Sesma, Nathaniel Stampley, Jessica Tyler Wright, Joel Waggoner, and William Youmans.  A Man of No Importance extended it’s run at Classic Stage Company, yet unfortunately closes on December 18.  I hope this will not be the last we see of this show.  It is a rare gem, truly charming and uniquely moving.

Domenick Danza

Paradise Square

 Paradise Square
Ethel Barrymore Theatre
July 3, 2022 

Photo courtesy of Paradise Square

Paradise Square is a MUST SEE  musical.  It tells the story of a twenty-block district in downtown Manhattan during the Civil War.  Populated by Irish Immigrants and free Black Americans, this area came under devastating attack during the New York Draft Riots in July 1863.  The fictional characters in the story are skillfully crafted to dramatize this unknown neighborhood and historic period.  The book by Christina Anderson, Craig Lucas, and Larry Kirwan is sharp and concise.  The plot is fueled by urgent, life changing decisions.  The score by Jason Howland is bold and emotionally impactful.  Lyrics by Nathan Tysen and Masi Asare bring the story forward with stunning clarity and heightened passion.  Director Moisés Kaufman masterfully pulls it all together to deliver a significant piece of musical theatre.

Photo courtesy of Paradise Square

Nelly O’Brien, a Black independent woman (played by Joaquina Kalukango), owns a bar in Five Points, also known as Paradise Square.  Her husband, Willie, an Irish Immigrant (played by Matt Bogart), is leaving to fight with the Union Army.  Willie’s sister, Annie (played by Chilina Kennedy) is remaining with Nelly to run the bar.  Annie’s husband, Reverend Samuel Jacob Lewis (played by Nathaniel Stampley) is a conductor on the Underground Railroad.  When a runaway slave (played by understudy Alan Wiggins) is separated from his partner, Angelina (played by Hailee Kaleem Wright), the Reverend seeks shelter for him at Nellie’s Bar.  At the same time, Annie’s nephew, Owen (played by A.J. Shively), arrives in New York, escaping the famine in Ireland.  Abraham Lincoln institutes the first Federal Draft, which imposes a $300 fine for any man who dodges his responsibility.  This creates a way out of the draft for the wealthy.  The immigrant population is required to serve and the Black population, who are willing, are prevented.  This creates a rift in the community of Five Points, especially within Nellie’s family.  When it is revealed to the authorities that Nellie is harboring a runaway slave, she becomes a target.  As the Draft Riots explode violently in the streets of New York, Nellie’s home becomes threatened.

Joaquina Kalukango & Chilina Kennedy
Photo courtesy of Paradise Square

Tony Award winner Joaquina Kalukango is a powerhouse.  She grabs your attention the minute she enters at the top of the show to tell Nellie’s story.  She continually engages your emotions, building to the spectacular number at the climax of the second act, which brings the audience to their feet. 

Also delivering a powerhouse performance is Chilina Kennedy as Annie Lewis.  She creates a rough, straightforward character who stands with Nellie through every emotional challenge and defining moment.  These two women are a remarkable duo.  There are also strong performances by Matt Bogart, Kevin Dennis, Nathaniel Stampley, A.J. Shively, Jacob Fishel, and understudies Alan Wiggins and Hailee Kaleem Wright.  The ensemble is outstanding.  They are full of energy, creating distinctive characters and vibrant moments that support the main action. 

Photo courtesy of Paradise Square

The choreography, by Bill T. Jones combines Irish step dancing and Black American Juba dance.  This sets the tone and pace for the story, while beautifully framing the historic and cultural content.  Scenic design, by Allen Moyer, creates a solid environment for the characters to inhabit.  It swiftly moves and shifts to keep the action continually connected.

In these current times where there is change and unrest, Paradise Square offers a startling perspective on the history of economic oppression in this country and the unrelenting need for standing up for freedom.  It is a monumental musical and a vital story.  Go see it! 

Domenick Danza