![]() |
![]() |
|
||||||||
|
Productions
|
PRODUCTIONS
Gee's Bend
By ELYZABETH GREGORY WILDER Directed by ELEANOR HOLDRIDGE On the Arcadia Stage October 9 - December 7, 2008
Gee's Bend is a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit. The Pettway women of Gee's Bend, Alabama are strong African-Americans. Through segregation, family turmoil and the Civil Rights Movement, the women turn to quilting to provide comfort and context to their lives. These quilts, a labor of love and necessity, turn out to be valuable works of art. Featuring three strong women and interwoven with gospel music, Gee's Bend is a deeply personal story of family, self-discovery and artistic expression. This Philadelphia premiere will coincide with the exhibition of Gee's Bend, The Architecture of the Quilt, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art from September 16 - December 14. Recommended for 8th/9th grade students and older.
Critical Acclaim–
"The cast is rock solid... Baxter's voice is rich and deep and thrilling." –Philadelphia Inquirer "Compelling... an exquisite production... Wilder's writing is incisive and unique... the Arden's dazzling production couldn't have come at a better time." –Philadelphia Weekly [Review] "Powerfully portrayed... spine-tingling effect... the three women strike chords and harmonies in the songs that are completely mesmerizing." –The Bulletin "Compelling and sympathetic... portrayed magnificently by the four actors. The production is understated and hits just the right notes." –Chestnut Hill Local "A strong production and cast." –EDGE Philadelphia "Brilliant... rich characters show how something as simple as a quilt can represent warmth, history, freedom of expression, love and independence. It's a treat!" –Philadelphia Tribune "This ensemble hits every note with perfect pitch." –The Weekly Press "Heartwarming story... powerful... great lead performance... moving moments that will stay with you." –Talkin' Broadway "Sensitive and powerful... it's a symphony of storytelling and gospel music... its themes and emotions linger." –Philadelphia Magazine "Skillfully performed... touching... thrilling history" –Philadelphia City Paper "Findley's amazing emotional range is matched by Moses Baxter's spot-on timing. Supported by a strong performance from Khemnu and two distinct dual turns from Johnson, you'll find yourself treated to a quintet of quality acting. Gee's Bend is deliciously personal." –DigPhilly |
![]()
Cast
Kala Moses Baxter Edwina Findley Marjorie Johnson Kes Khemnu Set Designer Marjorie Bradley Kellogg Costume Designer Alison Roberts Lighting Designer Les Dickert Sound Designer Christopher Colucci Music Director Walter Dallas Assistant Director Na Tanyá Daviná Stewart Original Quilt Design Michael Schweikardt Stage Manager Stephanie Cook APPLAUSE, PLEASE, FOR OUR MEDIA PARTNERS:
|
||||||||
|
©2009 Arden Theatre Company, 40 N. 2nd St., Philadelphia, PA 19106. For tickets, call 215.922.1122. Directions | Site Search | Arden on Facebook | Arden on MySpace | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use Website developed by MindLabs.net |