(From “The Kinderness”: April Audia, Stephanie Jackson, Danni Cassette and Robbie Danzie (Photo courtesy of Sikivu Hutchinson)
Reviewed by Julyza Commodore
The Blue Door
Through February 2.
RECOMMENDED
Outliers: A Black Women’s Theater Showcase consists of four play-excerpts that are written, directed and produced by Cydney Wayne Davis, Dee Freeman, Sikivu Hutchinson, and and Jessica Robinson.
The four excerpts cover a wide range of topics: Freeman’s autobiographical solo show “Poison Gun” (in which she performs, is set in the 1960’s American South. Freeman does a wonderful job of storytelling, portraying several characters in a saga that’s set around the murder of her grandparents during Civil Rights Movement. Her emotional investment, as writer and performer, is palpable.
Hutchinson’s “The Kinderness” is unique in its presentation. In the opening scene (of the three that were performed), we meet 40 Acre (Stephanie Jackson) who then encounters Marcus (Danni Cassette). Without revealing too much, 40 Acre works at an establishment called The Kinderness, and one of her wishes is to “Shed all this Negro noise.” Within this excerpt, time traveling and droids play an important role.
In Robinson’s “Sister X,” Vanessa (Skylear Wesley) is dealing with her complicated life after marrying Timothy (Phillip Mcnair) and joining Islam. She explains that she “joined to fight sexism and colorism” however, unfortunately, her experience proves quite the opposite She is encouraged and comforted by Sister Barbara (Sonja Marie) as she juggles her religion, marriage and being a young mother who is striving for more than what she currently has. And yes, as this excerpt dramatizes, it is possible for a woman break free from what was holding her back for so long. This may feel like a fantasy, but it’s persuasive, in Robinson’s capable writing.
Davis’s autobiographical “The Star Behind the Stars” is based on Davis’s rise to stardom which of course was not an easy road. Young Cydney (Ashlee Olivia) and her sister, Cynthia (Tiffany Coty) have a heartwarming sister dynamic, illustrated when Cynthia makes it clear that she will protect her sister through it all, as she manages her career. It’s clear, and inspiring, how important Davis’s family is to her and how her excitement and joy are so evident in her story telling.
The Blue Door, 9617 Venice Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232, February 2nd at 2pm. Two hours with one ten minute intermission, https://www.bluedoorculver.com/home-shows
