Ah, the old west. We see those bright blue skies, land stretching as far as the eye can see, and yes, perhaps even feel the winds sweeping down the plain. For most, when thinking about shows taking place in the west, we’re imaging the classic love story set in the optimistic Oklahoma plains. For African-Americans after the Civil War, the west holds the same hope. In FLYIN’ WEST, we explore that same feeling, but with very different circumstances.
American Blues Theatre Down in Kansas
Having moved from Memphis, a family of three sisters thought they’d find new hope in Nicodemus, Kansas under the Homestead Act. They’ve worked hard and established a life for themselves on their land and won’t be looking to sell to any white prospectors anytime soon.
With the threat of these prospectors looming over their community, the youngest sister of the three comes to visit from London with her pompous husband in tow. As the drama unfolds, we wonder if the town of Nicodemus will prosper and if this family can overcome some challenges of their own.
Humor and Drama Balancing Act
The humor in this show is carried off by each member of the cast, particularly Tiffany Oglesby and Sydney Charles playing the hard willed politically minded Sophie and the keep the peace middle sister Fannie, respectively. They absolutely kill with their sarcasm and pointed looks through the show. Not to mention Tiffany Renee Johnson is easily charming as the baby sister, Minnie.
And to do not even think of messing with Joslyn Jones as Miss Leah. Though she might seem as harmless as a bird, her past has given her an armour so thick she will do anything to protect this family.
These women command the stage and have us laughing for half the show and holding our breaths as tensions rise for the other. Every member of the cast works seamlessly with each other to draw us in the their drama ridden world.
Feel the Freedom
FLYIN’ WEST captures two aspects of life out west in 1898 - the societal pressures surrounding this family to sell their land and familial drama as the sisters rally together to protect themselves from a harmful husband. In this writer's view, this show is a good fit for American history buffs and those who like a dramedy. It might not be the best fit for those who aren’t into historical plays.
RECOMMENDED
Note: This is now added to the Picture this Post round up of BEST PLAYS IN CHICAGO, where it will remain until the end of the run. Click here to read – Top Picks for Theater in Chicago NOW – Chicago Plays PICTURE THIS POST Loves.
CAST
Sydney Charles
Wardell Julius Clark
Tiffany Renee Johnson
Joslyn Jones
Tiffany Oglesby
Henri Watkins
CREATIVE
Chuck Smith
Pearl Cleage
Grant Sabin
Lily Grace Walls
Jared Gooding
Ricks Sims
Kevin Rolfs
Shandee Vaughan
When
Now through November 3, 2018
Thursdays 7:30pm
Fridays 7:30pm
Saturdays 3:00pm & 7:30pm
Sundays 2:30pm
Where
Stage 773
1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
For more information please visit American Blues Theatre website
Note: An excerpt of this review appears in Theatre in Chicago
Photos
Michael Brosilow
About the Author
Alexis is a theater reviewer, travel bug, media specialist, and burger & beer enthusiast. During the day she works in the advertising business as a senior communications designer. When night falls, or when she can escape to New York, she’s hitting the theaters to see as many shows as she can. And whenever she’s not at her desk or in the audience, she’s out seeking the best burger and beer offerings in Chicago.
Editor's Note: Click here to read more Picture this Post articles by Alexis Bugajski
