By Sandra A. Daley-Sharif
Preview: Sunday, November 20th, 2011
Preview: Sunday, November 20th, 2011
Lydia R. Diamond’s Stick Fly is about the LeVays, an African American family who are descendants of the oldest free landowners on Martha’s Vineyard. We catch them on a weekend where mom’s away, secrets are revealed, and race banter flies high. David Gallo’s set design beautifully offers a specific and accessible backdrop for layers of storytelling.
Stick Fly confirms that discussions of race and class are oftentimes harsh, humorous, and downright difficult to unravel. But it is clear that the audience, both black and white, are eager to bear witness to the witty and never dull conversations. We black folks are tickled to see ourselves in rich regalia on stage and to affirm the “behind closed doors” dishin’. I did find it interesting that in the midst of laughter, a white audience member, sitting next to me, said "This is like a soap opera... very Tyler Perry!”
Stick Fly is wordy and could stand some real editing. There are times that the actors seem to struggle to make the words their own. The women do a beautiful job of being playful and imaginative, especially Tracie Thoms’ rendition of Taylor, the “quirky” girlfriend who mourns a relationship with her father. Ms. Diamond gives the female characters many opportunities to shine. She does less so with the men, who feel one-dimensional, often immature, and having little or no voice. It is difficult to watch Reuben Santiago-Hudson (Joe LeVay) who is gifted at handling August Wilson and his own Lackawanna Blues, spending much time on stage with no words or defense.
Stick Fly often contradicts in that the LeVays feel like “new” money. They talk about and point to their wealth in a way that doesn’t strike as authentic. They are harsh to Cheryl; the maid that feels more like the playwright is trying to make a point (“See black people can be mean to their help, too!”) and it is not supported in their character. Cheryl, beautifully played by Condola Rashad, carries a “street” accent that seems unnecessary for a girl that is exposed to the wealth of Aspen, Martha’s Vineyard, and the best schools. We know she’s a maid and of a different class… After all, she’s cleaning, cooking, and answering the door.
Cast: Dulé Hill, Mekhi Phifer, Tracie Thoms, Reuben Santiago-Hudson, Rosie Benton, and Condola Rashad
Playing At: Cort Theatre 138 West 48th Street, New York, NY 10019
Important Dates, 2011: Preview November 18th, and Opening December 8th
