Radio Golf

Reviewed by Julyza Commodore
A Noise Within
Thru November 13

RECOMMENDED

What’s the price of progress? August Wilson’s 2005 Radio Golf asks this question, as the final installment of his Century Cycle, representing cultural changes in Pittsburgh during the 1990s. With Harmond Wilks (Christian Telesmar) campaigning to become Mayor and having his own personal aspirations, he is quickly met with conflict when Elder Joseph Barlow (Alex Morris) comes to his office with a complaint regarding his house that Harmond just may be able to solve, but not without having his integrity tested.

Wilson’s plays remain strikingly relevant. Directed by Gregg T. Daniel, this production does a wonderful job of emphasizing the timeless conflict between the newer generation of Black Americans and the older generation who see “progress” as two very different things. The argument is presented through the characters of Mame Wilks (Sydney A.Mason) and Roosevelt Hicks (DeJuan Christopher), ambitious, and wanting a piece of the American Dream as it has been sold to them through the lens of gentrification. On the other hand, there is Elder Joe Barlow and Sterling Johnson (Matt Orduña) who are trying to preserve the past. In the middle of this all is the political candidate, Harmond Wilks. What to do when Barlow’s house stands in the way of a new high rise development?

There are many great things about this production. What really stands out is the cast and director Daniel’s ability to keep the show moving; the rhythm feels natural, neither rushed nor lethargic.  A Noise Within is the perfect venue for this play, as the space provides just enough intimacy to capture the cultural and economic issues that are so close to these characters’ hearts.

A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Boulevard, Pasadena; Fri.-Sat., 8pm, Sat.-Sun., 2 pm; thru Nov. 13. https://www.anoisewithin.org