Choir Boy

Choir Boy – Steppenwolf Theatre

Not often do I say a show is a must-see, but Tarell Alvin McCraney’s Choir Boy most definitely is. The cast, set, music, and message all combine for a truly invigorating coming-of-age show that thoughtfully portrays the struggles of a young gay Black man trying to find acceptance from his peers. The production stars La Shawn Banks, Sheldon D. Brown, Richard David, William Dick, Gilbert Domally, Tyler Hardwick, and Samuel B. Jackson, all directed by Kent Gash. 

The play takes place at the Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys, and focuses on a group of five upperclassmen. The environment is rigid, built on tradition and integrity. Every young man who attends the institution follows the values to become a “strong Drew man.” Pharus Young bleeds these values with his intelligent remarks in class, kindness to others, and role as choir lead with boundless musical talent. However, none of these attributes are able to shield Pharus from the harassment he receives from other students for his sexuality. Pharus’s vibrant persona incites fear and retaliation from many of his peers. He is disrespected so often that he is rarely able to express his true self, and he struggles with how to manage his commitments and friendships while still being able to find happiness and acceptance. 

This performance does not shy away from the love and hate which Pharus encounters. The emotions are portrayed beautifully as you can see which inner-demons each character is fighting within themselves and how they release it on to others. These topics are handled quite poetically and with a rich depth that will have you pondering your own and others’ beliefs.

The music was incredible in this performance. A cappella gospel hymns were sung throughout with true vulnerability from some of the most crisp voices I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Furthermore the addition of a Stepping routine injected high energy and percussive dance into the play, which felt like a crossover into the musical genre. This is how music should be built into plays, emotion that is too much to be conveyed as spoken word, requiring that characters then break out into music. 

What was lovely but unfamiliar to me was the audience engagement. Going to plays, and other quiet settings like mass, I have always been taught to observe and be quiet. The audience cheered for the actors on stage, gave remarks in solidarity, and spoke their truth. When added on top of the gospel hymns, the feeling invokes the canon of the Black church, where struggle is met with love and reconciliation. This relationship between audience and cast left me feeling more engaged than ever, and left a real impression on both my mind and my soul.

Overall – I would highly recommend going to Steppenwolf Theatre’s intimate Downstairs Theater to view this performance and feel as it echoes through you. 

Highly Recommend

Reviewed by Rachel Robbins

Runs from June 16 – July 24, 2022 in Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theatre

More information can be found here