"Under the direction of Daniel Alexander Jones, this production of Gem of the Ocean employs the theatrical jazz aesthetics that rest on “the break”—the jazz space where improvisation happens, where the unknown is sought, where Black life is allowed to flourish free of externally imposed sanctions. This fertile space of new possibilities is precisely what the present moment of racial turmoil demands."
Black Mary (Omoze Idehenre), Aunt Ester (Margo Hall), and Eli (David Everett Moore) in anguish over their friend, Solly Two Kings (Juney Smith), being shot. Photo by Kevin Berne |
Marin Theatre Company's dramaturg, Dr. Omi Jones, commentary on the company's production of August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean is a must read. Check it out here.