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Joe Turner's Come and Gone review
Earlier this year, Viola Davis excitedly quoted August Wilson’s play, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, while announcing Michael B Jordan’s Oscar win. “You are shining, Herald Loomis,” she beamed, “shining like new money!” It was a touching acknowledgment of the actor’s long-awaited recognition, and the glory that awaits him. For most of Wilson’s 1911-set piece, Loomis is a man weary from an endless walk through the shadow of the valley of death, his spirit all but broken by systemic racism. Salvation is hardly guaranteed, but flickers in the distance.
TL;DR
- Debbie Allen's revival of August Wilson's 'Joe Turner's Come and Gone' is noted for its compelling cast but is described as uneven.
- The play, set in 1911, explores themes of systemic racism and the search for identity and salvation.
- Herald Loomis, a central character, is portrayed as weary and broken by racism, with his arrival impacting the residents of a Pittsburgh boardinghouse.
- The production's direction is criticized for overemphasizing Loomis's menace, detracting from the ensemble nature of the play.
- Performances by Joshua Boone (Loomis) and Ruben Santiago-Hudson (Bynum) are highlighted as strong, as are those of Taraji P. Henson and Cedric the Entertainer in their respective roles.
- The set design by David Gallo is praised for capturing the play's atmosphere, though the staging itself is seen as confining.
- A new character introduced near the end is noted for her commanding performance.