Does keeping a terrible secret break a friendship? Is it possible for love to overcome insurmountable odds? Is it possible to pardon the unpardonable? Treachery Lies & Deception, written and directed by Margaret P. Bean, explored these and other themes in a recent production at La Familia Soundstage in Baltimore. The show’s themes take on mental health and domestic abuse.
There is an abundance of raw emotion and sensationalism in the story. A singer named Savannah Manchester finds out that the proprietor of the JW Lounge, Justin Wells, is using her for his own benefit. Depression is obviously a problem for Savannah. Her past mental breakdown set the circumstances for Treachery Lies & Deception.
As Savannah, Danielle Niecy Rollins was excellent. The impact of the character’s mental illness was conveyed in numerous scenes. In many scenes, Rollins showed the frailty of someone who is attempting to mend her heart and her relationships.
Villainous Justin Wells treated his women badly in the show. W. Keith Scott displayed remarkable versatility, moving between a likable character and one that the audience delighted in detesting. Justin was just insufferable.
Justin’s wife, ShaNay Wells, had a lot to hide from her former friend, Savannah. Actress Myesha Dione brought an air of duplicity to the part. Scenes involving Justin’s domestic violence on her were difficult to witness.
Landon Smith, played by Antione Avery, was a compelling character since he wanted nothing more than to save Savannah from Justin’s mistreatment. When Avery’s longing for Savannah was on full display in his scenes with Rollins, he truly shone.
I loved the dynamic between Anissa Stewart’s Lady Love and Otis Williams’ Reverend Love. Their relationship was the epitome of a happy marriage; they were perfect complements to one another, moving through life gracefully. In a sermon, Reverend Love strongly intoned messages like “Put on the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-18); “God knows your heart and the devil does too!”; and “Young Men of Baltimore, put the guns down!”
First-time actor Regina Gina G.’s “messy” and obnoxious Brenda Busy Body added energy and comedy to the show. Regina’s preferred weapon was gossip and her second-favorite weapon was verbal sparring. I couldn’t help but notice Summers’ flashy and outrageous attire — one outfit featured Christmas lights.
Christina Blake, in her acting debut, convincingly portrayed pop-up-shop salon owner Lorraine Dobson. Quiana J. Stowe, in a vital role as Justin’s daughter Maxi Wells, turned in an emotional performance.
Many of the scenes were tied together with songs like James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s World.” Bean even performed a liturgical dance.
Bean’s scenic design was effective without using a lot of flourishes. The design consisted of placing furniture in front of a screen, which was then used to broadcast images of cityscapes, a salon, and a living room from YouTube.
Forgiveness, reconciliation, and secrecy are important themes in Treachery Lies & Deception, a show that explores truth, lies, and abuse. Saturday night’s performance was the last of this calendar year. When this touring show stops in your city, grab your ticket and go.
Running Time: One hour and 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
Treachery Lies & Deception played for one performance only on August 24, 2024, presented by MPB Entertainment performing at La Familia Soundstage, Baltimore, 836 Guilford Ave, Baltimore, MD. Tickets ($45) for its next performance can be purchased online. For future MPB Entertainment shows visit its website.
Treachery Lies & Deception
By Margaret P. Bean
CAST
Danielle Niecy Rollins: Atlanta & Baltimore Savannah Manchester
Cherill Ashton: New York Savannah Manchester
Myesha Dione: Shady ShaNay Wells
W. Keith Scott: Justin Wells (JW)
Quiana J. Stowe: Maxi Wells
Antione Avery: Landon Smith
Anissa Stewart: First Lady Love
Otis Williams: The Right Reverend Love
Christina Blake: Lorraine Dobson
Regina Summers (Regina GinaG): Brenda Busy Body
Margaret P. Bean: Change – Dancer
ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE TEAM
Margaret P. Bean: Playwright/Director, Scenic Design & Lighting Design
Denise Scott: Stage Manager & Greeter
Zachery T. Brown: Prop Manager & Audio Tech
Rebecca Thompson: Blocking, Atlanta Stage Assistant
