Play Review: The Darkest Pit
Written by DJ Special Blend from Chicago on September 8, 2009
This wtiter was collared by the Chicago Def Poet’s latest stage show from the moment the lights came up, til the final bow.
“The Darkest Pit” is a new play written by Kristiana Colon that is now playing at the Prop Theater every Friday and Saturday night through October 9th.
Four students and their instructor endure the terror of being trapped in a classroom on a college campus while the building is taken hostage by a shooter.
Zarinah Ali plays the lead role of Emme who’s in the middle of the horrific circumstances. Brandy Brooks plays the role of Natalie, and Shannon Evans portrays the confused and terrified character Crete.
Jennifer Lauren Glasse takes the role of Kinzie who has her laptop handy, and Asha the instructor is brought to life by Lina Jamoul.
Erynn Mackenzie almost had a brotha’s leg shaking with her performance as Ariel, as she caught my attention in the opening sequence. The artsy opening stimulates the mind with an interpretation of every day commonality leading up to the events that await our characters.
Elise Mayfield sings like a canary as she executes the role of Sophia. She gets to show her lungs as she worships and prays for her safety, and she doesn’t miss a note. Mayfield makes one ask if the role was written specifically for her.
“The Darkest Pit” is a very smart production starting with the writing, all the way through the good use of the set. Each prop pulls your imagination at purposely chosen moments. The show’s climax develops from an intelligent aberration and from unfortunate tragedy.
The production leaves one admiring it’s significance. I took a look at the program cover as I left the theater and said to myself, “Oooohh, okay.”
Directed by Stefan Brun, “The Darkest Pit” is recommended. Showtime at 8pm.
