Family Is Everything

The Reclamation of Madison Hemings

Two middle-aged African-American men journey to Monticello in 1866. It’s mid-November and turning cold. Winter is coming to the mountainous region. The Civil War is over but, despite the Emancipation of Slavery, Black men and women still aren’t being treated as equal citizens of the United States. They don’t have the same rights as their White neighbors and still bear the scars caused by the trauma of slavery.

Charles Smith’s moving and often humorous two-act play is set in the ruins of what was once the home of Thomas Jefferson, the country’s third President. He’s also known, of course, as the author of the Declaration of Independence, where he declared that “All men are created equal.” Unfortunately for this country, that idealistic proclamation has never truly become a reality for many individuals. Even today, citizens of all races who are fed up with the unfair way African-Americans are still being treated, have created the Black Lives Matter Movement. It reminds us that, horrifically, racial prejudice and inequality continually is raising its ugly head in America.

Two freed slaves revisit the Virginia plantation they once called home. Madison Hemings, the son of Thomas Jefferson and his slave, Sally Hemings, and Israel Gillette, Jefferson’s slave and footman, are hoping to find Moses Gillette, Israel’s brother. When Israel walked away from Monticello to freedom, he chose to take his former owner’s surname. Madison, on the other hand, is still angry and resentful at being Jefferson’s illegitimate son but without the privileges. He, instead, took the last name of his loving mother, Jefferson’s house slave, Sally Hemings. The two men recall the fond memories of family, while remembering the horrifying moments of living in bondage. 

As the stormy night approaches, Madison feels he has the right to sleep inside the abandoned shelter of Monticello. But without the caretaker present to seek permission, Israel is firmly against it and plans to sleep outside, weathering the elements. Still angry at being considered an unwanted bastard child, Madison seeks his own revenge. The next morning, he decides to take everything from inside the plantation that he helped build, much to Israel’s horror and strong disapproval. And this is just the beginning of his revenge.  

Directed by American Blues Ensemble member, Chuck Smith, this talented theatre artist is truly one of the Windy City’s premiere directors. His work reflects a long life in Chicago Theatre. Here he’s brought Charles Smith’s historical drama to life and placed the two-character play in the hands a pair of very talented and reliable actors. Talented Jon Hudson Odom’s work has been enjoyed, not only on television and at this theatre, but at Steppenwolf, the Goodman, Writers Theatre and many others. He portrays Madison Hemings as a bitterly angry man who also harbors a glib sense of humor. Indeed, much of the play’s comic moments are derived from Mr. Odom’s line delivery and facial reactions. As Israel Jefferson, Manny Buckley, a gifted Chicago-based actor, director and writer, is excellent. He was recently seen during the holidays in American Blues’ “It’s a Wonderful Life.” His solid portrayal of Hemings’ friend is grounded, thoughtful and warmhearted. His statement that “family is everything” really hits home and somewhat serves to soften Madison’s temperament. 

Although the first act sizzles, Act II feels a little slow and sometimes tedious. Much of the same information gets rehashed and one particularly shocking incident involving an animal leaves the audience aghast for a while. I could see where a bit of editing would benefit this play and, perhaps, result in a stronger one-act production. But the myriad of eye-opening historical information that’s presented, along with the sound, emotionally gripping arguments heard in this fictional account, are very compelling. The conflict between these two African-American men who grew up on the same plantation is understandable and, by the final scene, leaves the audience with a great deal of food for thought.    

Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented February 16-March 24 by American Blues Theater, 5627 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago.

Tickets are available at the box office, by calling 773-654-3103 or go to www.boxoffice@AmericanBluesTheater.com.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.