The Rolling Stone
Lincoln Center Theater
The Mitzi Newhouse
July 20, 2019
 |
| Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater |
Playwright
Chris Urch has crafted a tour de force in The Rolling Stone, now running
at Lincoln Center Theater. The
characters are all truthfully developed.
In the second act he takes the conflict to the highest degree. The physical and emotional safety of each character is at serious risk. Director Saheem Ali magnificently builds the
audience’s engagement by layering honest and personal moments that endear them
to the characters. You cannot help
becoming part of the action, hoping for the best, yet fearing the worst.
The
year is 2010 in Kampala, Uganda (Africa).
Joe (played by James Udom) has just been appointed pastor of his
church. He and his brother, Dembe
(played by Ato Blankson-Wood), and his sister, Wummie (played by Latoya
Edwards), are feeling the loss after their father’s death, so this news brings
them great joy. The newspaper is publishing
photos of men accused of being homosexual, causing devastating disruption in
the community. Dembe is aware of the
danger his is putting his family in due to his relationship with Sam (played by
Robert Gilbert). When Mama (played by
Myra Lucretia Taylor), a close friend and influential member of their
congregation, brings them news that Dembe’s name is “on the list,” a decision
must be made. Does Dembe leave the
country with Sam? Does the family flee with
disgrace? Do they stay and risk Dembe’s
life and the family’s place in the community?
 |
| The Cast of The Rolling Stone Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater |
Ato
Blankson-Wood, James Udon, and Latoya Edwards create an authentic caring trio
of siblings. Their closeness is evident
in how they challenge one another to be their best, and sacrifice their own desires
for the need of the family. The tables
turn on their relationship numerous times in the action of the play. Each moment brings a myriad of emotion to the
surface. These three actors rise to each
of these moments as the action builds beyond expectation. They are a unit with individual beliefs and
flaws that bring about a powerful turn of events that have a potent effect.
 |
| Ato Blanson-Wood & Robert Gilbert Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater |
The
relationship between the characters created by Robert Gilbert and Ato
Blankson-Wood is touching, humorous, and deeply moving. The audience is on the journey of their
emotional discoveries. Their hearts are
shared. Their intimacy is open and visceral.
Myra
Lucretia Taylor plays a loving and giving matron to the congregation. Her character hides her fears and vengeance
beneath her faith. Ms. Taylor depicts
this duality perfectly. Adenike Thomas
beautifully portrays her daughter, Naomi.
As their truths gradually reveal, our understanding and compassion flourish.
The
Rolling Stone
is a brilliant play. The Lincoln Center
Theater production is superbly directed and performed. It is playing at the Mitzi Newhouse Theater
through August 25. Go see it!
Domenick Danza
