Here
is a rousing salute to legendary black music producer, John Dolphin, who challenged
the segregated music business by introducing black music to whites.
Back in the 1950’s
‘Dolphin’s of Hollywood’ in South
Central L.A. was perhaps the most famous record shop in the country, with a DJ
spinning records, singers recording, radio broadcasts and stars dropping in.
Open 24/7, dancing kids would pack Dolphin’s record shop on Central Avenue day and night,
bringing the races happily together and when hassled by the authorities Dolphin fought
back and won. All of this is told in a
series of wonderfully energetic songs and dances, by a multi-talented cast, that
take us through a decade of struggle, romance, triumph, even tragedy.
Dazzling in multiple roles are Brooke
Brewer, Richie Ferris,
Jenna Gillespie, Franklin Grace, Nic
Hodges, Philip Dean Lightstone, Jake Novak,
James Simenc, Matthew Sims, Jr., Sha’Leah
Nikole Stubblefield and Katherine
Washington. Original songs by Andy Cooper match well with hit
songs that were launched by Dolphin in his store. Book by Matt Donnelly and loyal grandson Jamelle Dolphin.
Vigorous direction by
Denise Dowse, dynamic choreography by Cassie Crump, and lively musical
direction by Stephan Terry. Perfect ‘50’s costumes by Mylette Nora.
At the Lillian Theatre,
1076 Lillian Way, Hollywood, through May 17. For tickets: 323-960-4443 or www.RecordedInHollywood.com.
Photos by Ed Krieger.
Also reviewed in the May
issue of NOT BORN YESTERDAY.
No comments:
Post a Comment