Gary Soto Pens Play for Latinx Teens in Distress by Robert M. Gardner In Gary Soto’s “The Afterlife,” two Fresno teenagers, Chuy and Crystal, die in the opening minutes. Chuy is murdered for an unintended slight, and Crystal kills herself. They are the victims of an alarming spike of teen deaths from violence and…
Bryan & DiPietro Passionately Pit Rock n’ Roll vs. Racism by Robert M. Gardner In “Memphis,” exciting music and dance move the soul. Under the inspired direction of Director Brendan Simon, “Memphis” offers non-stop entertainment. We are quickly caught up in the beautiful songs and intricate dance moves by the talented ensemble. Set in…
Karani Marcia Leslie Johnson Strips Black Stereotypes Bare by Robert M. Gardner Karani Johnson pulls no punches in her hard-hitting exposè of Black stereotypes. We know well the history of white oppression since , but her “The Trial of One Short-Sighted Black Woman vs. Mammy Louise and Safreeta Mae” reveals Black people’s prejudices against…
Katrina Lauren McGraw Scores Triumph as Bessie Smith by Robert M. Gardner As the saxophone player (smooth Ric Alexander) steps center stage, he coaxes soulful notes and seductive rhythms to the tune of “St. Louis Blues.” We are thrilled as diva Katrina Lauren McGraw channels Bessie Smith, the Empress of the Blues, and sings…