Vincent Terrell Durham’s Solo Show Shines in World Premiere at City Lights Theater

City Lights Theater in San Jose, California was buzzing with excitement as the world premiere of Vincent Terrell Durham’s solo show took center stage. The highly anticipated production, titled “The Widow and Miss Mamie Mae”, was met with critical acclaim and left audiences in awe.

Durham, a renowned playwright and actor, has been making waves in the theater world with his thought-provoking and emotionally charged works. “The Widow and Miss Mamie Mae” is no exception, as it delves into the complexities of race, family, and identity in the American South.

The play follows the story of two women, Miss Mamie Mae and her daughter-in-law, as they navigate their relationship in the aftermath of a tragic event. Set in the 1960s, the play explores the effects of segregation and the struggle for civil rights on a small community in Mississippi.

From the moment the lights dimmed and the stage came to life, it was clear that this was going to be a powerful and unforgettable performance. Durham’s writing is both poetic and raw, drawing the audience in with every word. His ability to capture the nuances of human emotion is truly remarkable.

The two actresses, Velina Brown and Cathleen Riddley, delivered outstanding performances that left the audience captivated. Brown’s portrayal of Miss Mamie Mae was both heartbreaking and inspiring, as she navigated the complexities of her character with grace and depth. Riddley’s performance as the young and fiery daughter-in-law was equally impressive, as she brought a fierce energy to the stage.

The set design by Ron Gasparinetti was simple yet effective, allowing the audience to focus on the powerful performances and the story being told. The use of projections and lighting added an extra layer of depth to the production, creating a visually stunning experience.

Director Lisa Mallette’s vision for the play was executed flawlessly, as she brought Durham’s words to life with precision and sensitivity. Her direction allowed the audience to fully immerse themselves in the story and connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The play’s themes of race and identity are still relevant today, making it a timely and important piece of theater. Durham’s writing challenges the audience to confront uncomfortable truths and sparks important conversations about the state of our society.

The standing ovation at the end of the show was a testament to the impact of “The Widow and Miss Mamie Mae”. It is a powerful and thought-provoking production that will stay with audiences long after the curtain call.

In a time where diversity and representation in the arts are at the forefront, Vincent Terrell Durham’s solo show is a shining example of the power of storytelling. It is a must-see for theater lovers and anyone looking to be moved and inspired.

City Lights Theater should be commended for bringing this world premiere to their stage and for their commitment to showcasing diverse voices in the arts. “The Widow and Miss Mamie Mae” is a testament to the power of theater to educate, challenge, and unite audiences.

In conclusion, Vincent Terrell Durham’s solo show at City Lights Theater is a triumph. It is a beautifully crafted and powerful production that will leave a lasting impact on all who have the privilege of experiencing it. Durham’s talent as a playwright and the exceptional performances by the cast and crew make this a must-see production. Don’t miss your chance to witness this groundbreaking play and be a part of the conversation it sparks.