Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

"A remarkable production."

 

"... this dazzling production seems to be living in the drama as opposed to simply performing it. Yet it doesn’t quite suggest the full brilliance of the work now on view. For that, as the saying goes, you really must be there."

3 Stars ***  "...intense, emotional revival..."

 

"James T. Alfred ... delivers one of the best performances of the season ... And Alfred is well matched by Greta Oglesby, the powerhouse, Minneapolis-based actress and an old Wilson hand who turns Ma Rainey into an uncompromising, staccato-loving, diva-like blues singer"

 

"You sense throughout that you’re in the company of artists at ease with Wilson and his American blues.  And “Ma Rainey” has found a resonant moment, one more time."

4 Stars ****  "... a tremendously sensitive, potent staging. James T. Alfred blazes as Levee... He and the other men form a brilliant, tight quartet as they trade insults and insights, while Oglesby commands as Ma Rainey ..."

"When writing reviews it’s rare that I’m able to use the word “powerful.” Still, I can’t think of a better description for Court Theatre and director Ron OJ Parson’s superb revival..."

"Court Theatre's revival ... crackles under the direction of Ron OJ Parson."

"The powerful production blew me away."