Scene from “Blues for an Alabama Sky”. Photo by Kristy Rucker
By Crystal Kendrick
Entertainment Editor
Falcon Theatre’s third production of its 30th anniversary season is Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky. The play is a brutally honest and candid examination of an array of issues — including race, gender, sexuality and cultural intolerance — in the historical context of the Harlem Renaissance and the early years of the Great Depression. The production, directed by Torie Wiggins, opens January 24 at Falcon Theatre, 636 Monmouth St., Newport, Kentucky 41071.
The story is set in Harlem, New York, in 1930. The euphoria and nonstop party of the Roaring Twenties have given way to the harsh realities of rampant joblessness and Jim Crow laws. The tale takes on the theme of hopeful dreams in hopeless times. It chronicles the aspirations and adversity of five characters whose lives tragically converge during an eight-week period. The names and spirit of Harlem Renaissance artists such as Langston Hughes and Josephine Baker hover throughout the play, but the story focuses on struggling artists whose dreams must be put on hold to face economic survival.
Performances are at 8 p.m. on January 24, 25, 30 and 31 and February 1, 6, 7 and 8. Tickets prices are $25 for adults and $15 for students with ID. Patrons enjoy a $5 discount for Thursday performances. Visit falcontheater.net for tickets.