If there is one thing that Woodie King Jr. does beautifully with New Federal Theatre, it is to tell present stories focused on our people and Black history in a way that engages the audience. That is exactly what is happening at the Castillo Theatre on W 42nd Street, as New Federal Theatre presents “Telling Tales out of School” and with an original story by Wesley Brown shines a light on four ladies, three of which were Black, but all of which fought for the rights of Black people in their own way. The women portrayed in a fictional meeting after the funeral of Alain Locke include Zora Neale Hurston; Jessie Fauset, Nella Larsen and Nancy Cunard. Now, of course we all are familiar with Hurston, an author, writer, folklorist and anthropologist, but this play reveals a vulnerable side and it shared uncomfortable moments in her life. Fauset was a novelist, wrote short stories and supported civil rights. She was a very outspoken women, who did not receive the credit that other Black writers of her time were afforded. Larsen was a woman of many accomplishments, she was a nurse, librarian and a writer who wrote two novels, one “Passing” was about what it was like to be a light skinned woman in this country. Cunard was a British writer, heiress and political activist who championed civil rights issues and she wrote the book “Negro: An Anthology” where she published work by Black writers from around the world.
That’s what I love about going to see a New Federal Theatre production. I admit I was not familiar with some of these ladies, but now I feel like I was schooled and taken back in time to 1954 and was able to listen in as these ladies confronted each other about the anger, and animosity that they had for each other. Each of these women prove to be very well spoken and very animated about their views of each other shortcomings. As they verbally go after each other, it is interesting to watch the response of the person being targeted. It’s interesting because a very vulnerable and sensitive side is revealed about each of these ladies. History will let us know their accomplishments and the scandals connected to their names, but what happens with this show is they are made completely relatable.
These women have come together for the funeral of Locke and each expresses their personal feelings for this man. Some had decent relationships with him, while others were ignored and felt a strong sense of resentment and rejection. It is interesting how the character of Cunard, who advocated for Black rights and causes and sponsored Black artists is asked what her real motivation was? The Black female characters are quick to constantly point out to her that she is not Black, no matter how much she supports Black causes. They also point out to her that she is a rich, heiress who can get away with doing shocking behavior because of what she is, but a Black woman is not afforded those liberties.
This is a production to educate you and to ignite your interests in our history. I know after seeing this production I wanted to learn more about these ladies.
The four actresses on that stage bring their characters home beautifully. Elizabeth Van Dyke is exceptional as Zora. She speaks with a ball of energy that is relentless. Richarda Abrams is powerful as Jessie, a black writer who is frustrated with the way her peers treat her. She is frustrated with not having the notoriety of her colleagues. Abrams delivers her as a complex character that is angry and in some cases has a right to be. Petronia Paley is perfectly cast as Nella, this actress has such a stunning style anytime she takes the stage. She portrays her role with great grace and dignity, while also showing the frustration of the scandal associated with her name. June Ballinger is a delight as Cunard. Her delivery of the character brings humor to the stage and she definitely has a great time dancing to jazz music. She is absolutely charming in her role. All four of these ladies work their magic marvelously. This production also comes off smoothly due to the flawless direction of Woodie King Jr.
“Telling Tales out of School” will only run through Nov. 12, 2023. For tickets www.newfederaltheatre.com.