THE PLAY: Playwright Anna Deavere Smith interviewed people in Los Angeles about their reactions to the Rodney King Riots. This one-woman show is taken verbatim from their accounts.

 

THE PRODUCTION: Katrinah Carol Lewis gets an opportunity for a tour de force performance, deftly changing from one character/accent to another. While most of them were totally involving, even occasionally touching, she is sometimes acting, instead of inhabiting the roles. She (and director Addie Barnhart) aren’t afraid to take the time needed to let every moment have its effect. Barnhart’s blocking has made good use of the space, although the extended video projections in Act One were a distraction from the performance. Erin Barclay’s basic lights add subtle variety. This is more a historical documentary than a play, so anyone who doesn’t know or recall the details behind this event may need help filling in the blanks. Running time: 1:55

 

THE POINT: Katrinah Carol Lewis skillfully rides a range of characters, chronicling the anger, frustration and sadness surrounding this significant moment in our history.

 

(4 / 5)

 

At TheatreLAB thru 4/1 (with an additional show on 5/4 to mark the 25th anniversary of the last day of the Rodney King Riots)