Victorian Players honor Black History

By Eric McCrea

entertainment@vindy.com

Youngstown

In honor of Black History Month, the Victorian Players began February with two one-act plays that focus on the struggles of African-American women. “Harriet Tubman Visits a Therapist” and “Mason-Dixon” were both written by Carolyn Gage, known primarily as a writer of lesbian theater.

In the first act we find a therapist, (Monica Beasley-Martin) receiving a visit from a young Harriet Tubman, played by Aujenay Cianciolla. Timelines collide in a fantastic and anachronistic way as the therapist hypnotizes Mrs. Tubman, but motives remain shrouded in mystery. It raises questions on the natures of freedom and loyalty with a strong undertone of betrayal.

Cianciolla was strong in her Vic debut. She portrayed a woman on the verge of something great, not yet fighting for freedom, but the gears are in motion. She gave the audience a sense that she was about to leap from the edge of a cliff, and she would either fall or fly. During her entrance, she walked with the weight of the world on her shoulders, and her final stomp served as a warning to those that would stand in her way.

Beasley-Martin was profound as the therapist. She showed a woman struggling internally as much as externally. She shifted sides in the plot deftly and kept the audience guessing at every turn.

In “Mason-Dixon” we find schoolteacher Mary, played by director Dr. Lundeana Thomas, being visited by a past she’s worked hard to forget. Her childhood friend and former-owner’s daughter Elizabeth (Geri DeWitt) comes knocking with a proposal that could risk everything Mary has worked for. Gage returns to her wheelhouse as the two women discuss their pasts and reveal hidden truths. While serving more as an historical-character study, compelling writing and passionate performances keep it interesting.

Thomas was formidable as the fiercely independent Mary. Her experience was evident in the subtle nuances of her performance. Interpretation is a solid quality with her, and she had ample opportunity to show it. Despite hiding from a troubled past, nothing about her implied fragility. She delivered a complete character whose entire life could be felt.

DeWitt has returned, after a brief hiatus, polished and on top. Known for being bold and powerful, she remained true to her roots, but with smoother edges. She showed vulnerability while staying true to her mission. She provided a subtext that enhanced the act and played well with Thomas.

A strong and versatile set capably served both acts, which varied in timing. Thomas also included a multimedia presentation and dance number. While charming and inspirational, they gave the evening a feeling of pageantry and pulled focus from the stage. Technical cues seemed relaxed, but subtle light shifts throughout the plays added a professional touch.

“Harriet Tubman Visits a Therapist” and “Mason-Dixon” will run today and next Sunday at 2 p.m. and Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. For reservations, call 330-746-5455.