An August Wilson masterpiece is unfolding on stage at Chicago's Goodman Theatre.
"Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is being presented through May 3 at The Goodman's Albert Theatre. It is part of The Goodman's Centennial Season.
The production, set in 1920's Chicago, revolves around "The Mother of The Blues" Ma Rainey, a celebrated African-American blues singer, and her struggles with taking control of her music in a white male-dominated corporate world. While based on the real singer Rainey, the story is fiction and takes place during a highly charged recording session where the power struggle between Rainey, producers and musicians unfolds in dramatic ways.
E. Faye Butler stars as Ma Rainey in "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" at The Goodman. Photo by Justin Barbin.
The audience also views the struggles the musicians have in their careers and personal lives. Issues of heartbreak, unequality and ultimately, tragedy, are seen in the production.
Portraying Rainey is E. Faye Butler, who gives a spitfire performance. Also starring in the show are Al' Jaleel McGhee, Scott Aiello, David Alan Anderson, Matt DeCaro, Marc Grapey, Tiffany Renee Johnson, Jabari Khaliq, Kevin Roston Jr. and Cedric Young.
"Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" continues to May 3 at The Goodman. Photo by Justin Barbin.
The standout production is directed by Chuck Smith with Harry J. Lennix as associate director and music director.
Theater fans won't want to miss this show.
FYI: "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" continues through May 3 at The Goodman, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. Tickets are $34 to $109. Visit www.GoodmanTheatre.org.