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