SARASOTA – Change has indeed come for the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. The Sarasota theatre revealed their eight million dollar renovation as they kick off the 2020 season with Caroline, or Change.
The same building that housed shows such as "In the Heights,“ "A Motown Christmas,“ and "The Whiz“ is almost unrecognizable with its brand new features. Guests will be pleased to know the expansion includes a larger lobby, more restrooms and comfortable, upgraded seats.
The Tony-nominated show takes place in 1963 around the JFK assassination. Caroline Thibodeaux, played by the riveting Jannie Jones, is a jaded and tired maid to the Gellmans - a Jewish family. She’s been cleaning homes for over 20 years and makes $30 a week. Her unhappiness takes its toll and spills into her personal life.
The only thing that gives Caroline solace is her radio while she’s doing laundry. In a unique spin, the radio is brought to life in human form as a musical trio played by Stephanie Zandra, Annaya Osborne and Toddra Brunson. The washing machine (Vallea E. Woodbury) and dryer (Brian L. Boyd) are also portrayed by actors.
Laundry isn’t the only thing wearing Caroline out. Caroline is a divorced mom of four, with her oldest son fighting in Vietnam. The emotional scars from her abusive ex are still very visible. Her unruly daughter, Emmie, (Alexis Ijeoma Nwokoji) is opinionated and not afraid of confrontation. Caroline also raises two young and growing sons, Joe and Jackie (Kenyon Edwards and Samuel Waite).
Caroline develops an unlikely "friendship“ with the Gellman’s eight-year-old son, Noah (Charles Shoemaker who alternates the role with Tommy Lelyo). The young boy faces his own struggles having just recently lost his mother and trying to adjust to his new stepmother, Rose (Eliza Engle). His dad, Stuart, (Courtney Dease) pays more attention to his clarinet than his own son, which alienates Noah even more. Noah looks up to Caroline although she tries not to engage with him too much.
Noah has a habit of leaving his pocket change in his pants. Rose decides to teach him a lesson. Rose asks Caroline to keep the money if she finds change while doing laundry. Rose’s plan appears to be a seemingly noble gesture but Caroline can read between the lines. Although Caroline could really use the extra money, she decides against it.
At first, Noah purposely leaves his change in his pockets so Caroline can keep it. Although Caroline initially refuses, she succumbs to her needs and keeps the change.
It’s not until he accidentally leaves a $20 bill that Noah confronts Caroline with reckless abandon and makes an extremely devastating remark. Caroline counters with her own harsh words.
"The title character of ÔCaroline’ is one of the most powerful female roles in musical theater. We feel this is a show that will open minds and touch hearts, and spark spirited discussion once the curtain comes down,“ said WBTT Founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs in a press release.
"We are particularly excited to perform this renowned production in our new, state-of-the-art theater. We know our audience will enjoy the updated amenities!“
Written by playwright, Tony Kushner, "Caroline“ opened on Broadway in 2003. The play is loosely based on Kushner’s own childhood in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Music is by Jeanine Tesori.
When Jones sings with all her strength, you see and feel all of her emotions. The power of her voice is truly remarkable and commands your attention.
There are few speaking lines in-between the musical numbers. Most of the dialogue is sung melodically.
The set by designer, Michael Newton-Brown is spacious yet intimate. The sizeable cast of new faces is able to move around comfortably without getting in each other’s way.
Patricia Vandenberg’s costume designs are well done, especially the striking gowns that appear on the radio trio and The Moon played by WBTT founding member, Teresa Stanley.
The house band led by music director and pianist, Nikki Ervin, takes this production up a notch. There is certainly no substitute for live instruments. This is the first show I’ve seen without bassist and resident musical director, Jay Dodge, at the helm. Dodge is the show’s Production Manager.
Jim Weaver directs and choreographs this production. The larger space is utilized well and the colorful use of lighting adds more character to the set.
"Caroline, or Change“ is a timely production about unexpected changes, but the WBTT reminds us that change can be a really good thing.
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