Radio Golf
Subject: Quicktake - "Radio Golf" by August Wilson
Date: Thursday, Sept 14, 9:51 AM
Quicktake on RADIO GOLF
Even though it's a full-length play, "Radio Golf," the last of his 10 plays set in Pittsburgh's Hill District, one for each decade of the 20th century, August Wilson's last effort seems somehow unfinished. Despite director Kenny Leon's best efforts, and a hardworking cast experienced in the author's style, the play never quite comes together. The main character, Harmond Wilks, played by Hassim El-Amin, undergoes a reversal of fortune, but his personal changes seem arbitrary. The references to characters in others plays in the cycle also seem gratuitous. The effect of the action is melodramatic; the fortunes of Harmond and his partner, Roosevelt Hicks, played by James A. Williams never seem compelling. And Harmond's wife, Mame, played by Michole Briana White, seems somehow nonessential; more of a plot device.
The rest of the cast includes two slightly mythic characters, Sterling Johnson played by Eugene Lee, and Elder Joseph Barlow, played by Anthony Chisholm, both typically Wilsonian. Their speech is colorful, embellished by folk wisdom. Their world views are unique if somewhat arbitrary. Their scenes elevate the action beyond a comedy about two ambitious black businessmen which ends in unanticipated betrayal. As usual the set is impressive and the rest of the technical support fully professional, from David Gallo's detailed set design to Donald Holder's lighting, Susan Hilfrey's costumes, and sound design featuring Kathryn Bostic's compositions.
Wilson's work is always worth consideration, but "Radio Golf" lacks the impact of his more important plays. With the help of friends and longtime collaborators, its a satisfactory evening of theatre even where the work seems embryonic.
"Radio Golf" by August Wilson, Sept. 8 - Oct.15
Huntington Theatre Co. at Mystic Theatre
264 Huntington Ave, (617) 266 - 0800
HTC
posted by will at 2:03 PM
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