It’s here! The third installment of the August Wilson Celebration Century Cycle tribute in Baltimore, Maryland: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom! One of the more popular plays written by August Wilson, this production at ArtsCentric will not disappoint. From philosophical wisdom to the live title song, this production allows you to experience a myriad of emotions. But the most important emotion is the joy of witnessing this production taking shape before your very eyes.
This play takes place in a 1920s recording studio in Chicago. During a time when the seeds of unrest and dissatisfaction are beginning to take root. There are two main dynamics that are taking place. The tension between the band members and the struggle for power between Ma Rainey (wonderfully portrayed by Kadejah One) and her music producers. There is a lot of talk of what it means to be colored in a society that considers you less than, until they want some specific talent that you have. Even the more humorous moments are laced with inherent racism. There is talk about the validity of the “white man’s God” and the path of the colored man going forward. There are tales of nighttime horrors and how people dealt with humiliation to survive. There is a constant need for others to control Ma Rainey from her sound to her name. The music producers are always trying to “keep her in line” or to “handle her.” But she holds the line and adamantly refuses to back down. One thing you will never be able to call Ma Rainey is weak.
The tension between LeeVee (interpreted by Justin Burley) and Cutler (played by Dominic Gladden) is akin to a slow-burning fire about to burn out of control. LeeVee, with the strength and arrogance of youth on his side, has a vision for his future that can’t be dulled by the cautious advice of the past or the slower, simpler temperaments of the present. So, it really hurts your heart when you see the realization in his eyes when he comprehends how little his soul is worth to “the devil.”
Cutler, who leads Ma’s band, is often at odds with LeeVee. I admire the strength of this character while saddened by his diminishing will to fight. He no longer aspires for more but is content with being loyal to Ma Rainey and submissive to her desires.
Archie Williams plays an amazing Toledo. Always ready with his time-worn advice, he often confuses the young LeeVee. But his anecdotes bring about some of the best catalysts for conversations. Always trying to give a lesson that goes over the heads of the others, he doesn’t stop trying. He maintains a small level of hope in basic humanity.
And of course, the music producers: Irvin (portrayed by Gary Dubreuil) and Sturdyvant (acted by Brian Lyons-Burke). Irvin, Ma’s manager, is the one who always claims to have it all, including her, under control. His favorite line is “I’ll take care of it.” Even though you see him at times going through hoops to appease Ma, he knows what his end goal is and keeps at it with such ferocity it’s almost diabolical. When he finally gets what he wants, you can see the eerie satisfaction creep onto his face. That look of ownership. It’s haunting. Then there is Sturdyvant, the music producer. He is exactly what you expect him to be. But his final moment on stage brings about a chilling anger because he shows you the truth of the world. And you can’t do anything about it.
But let’s talk about Ma Rainey. From her first second onstage, her presence swallows the room. Her booming voice, her antics, her posture, her everything just completely takes over. She moves without shame or hindrance. Even when the whole world at times is against her. She doesn’t apologize for anything and absolutely demands and expects to have things her way. She knows the game that is being played. And while she knows she will ultimately lose, she still is going to do everything she can to win.
While this play is a must-see in the August Wilson Century Cycle, there are a few things to take note of: There is actual smoke when they are smoking. While I’m pretty sure it’s not tobacco (there was more of a flowery scent), whatever it was can potentially be irritating. I know I needed something to drink during intermission to clear my throat. Also, there is no assigned seating. Although the majority of the seats provide decent views of the stage, you will want to arrive on time, if not early, to get the best seating, especially if you are part of a larger party. Lastly, there is street parking available in a mixed neighborhood along with a parking lot adjacent to the building. It wasn’t a problem for me, but if you arrive late, it could potentially be a problem because you will be competing with businesses in the area that are open late.
My final note: Go see this play. It was worth the time to experience the triumph of August Wilson’s storytelling in such an intimate but well-thought-out setting.
Running Time: Two hours and 35 minutes including a 15-minute intermission.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom plays through April 27, 2025, at ArtsCentric, 2600 N. Howard Street, Baltimore, MD. Purchase tickets ($40) online or in person.
SEE ALSO:
August Wilson’s ‘American Century Cycle’ to play at 10 theaters in Baltimore (news story, April 3, 2024)
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
By August Wilson
Directed by Kevin S. McAllister
CAST
Irvin: Gary Dubreuil
Sturdyvant: Brian Lyons: Burke
Madame “Ma” Rainey: Kadejak One
LeVee: Justin Burley
Sylvester: Angelo Harrington II
Officer: Glen Haupt
Dussie Mae: Tia Thomas
Toledo: Archie Williams
Slow Drag: Grant Chism
Cutler: Dominic Gladden
ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE TEAM
Director: Kevin S. McAllister
Music Director: Cedric D. Lyles
Sound Designer: Chris Lane
Fight/Intimacy: Sierra Young
Choreographer: Shalyce Hemby
Scenic Design: Emily Lotz
Costume Design: Larry Boggs
Lighting Design: Tyrell Stanely
Dramaturg: Khalid Long
Stage Manager: Jordan Ross
Asst Stage Manager: Khalil White
Asst Costume Design: Deana Cruz-Conner
Tech Director/ Carpenter: Matt Kator
Asst Tech Director: Amiel Nuchovich
Properties Designer: Penelope Chan
Scenic Painter: Justin Nepomuceno
Sound Op: Andreus Brijbasi