Monthly Archives: July 2024
Dead Men Tell No Tales
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
“To understand the living, you’ve got to commune with the dead.” So says Minerva, the Voodoo Priestess, after she lures Jim Williams, the musical’s main character, to the cemetery where this musical begins. She will try to help the Savannah antiques dealer, accused of murdering his male lover, to prepare for his impending trial. The ritual takes place around midnight, during the period of time for hoodoo good and evil magic, and hence the book’s title. During the half hour before twelve o’clock, Minerva explains, good can be generated, while the half hour following midnight is for evoking evil. Through Minerva’s intervention, a role beautifully portrayed by multitalented Chicago actress Brianna Buckley, Jim will try to believe that dead men tell no tales.
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Heart and Soul
Ain’t Misbehavin’
Walking into the Drury Lane Theatre the theatergoer’s mouth may fall open in wonder. The entire stage has been magically transformed into a beautiful Bronzeville cabaret nightclub, circa 1939 Chicago. This is thanks to the artistry of Andrew Boyce’s plush and classy Scenic Design, and accented by Lee Fiskness’ moody and sometimes melancholy Lighting. This lavishly detailed Art Deco night spot is reminiscent of New York’s Cotton Club or the Savoy Ballroom. Draperies, crystal chandeliers and lighted alcoves and arches frame a set that’s dominated by two movable platforms and stair units, the onstage domicile for the six musicians. The stage is adorned with several small tables and chairs and highlighted with champagne glasses and twinkling petite lamps. The scene provides a comfortable environment for both the five talented performers and a six-member onstage band, led by conductor and pianist, William Foster McDaniel.
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