by Claire DeMarco
Knobby (Art Terry) waits (somewhat patiently) in his Chicago dance studio in the 1990’s. He’s expecting a group of singers that he hasn’t seen for some time. Known as a Doo-Wop group called the Doves in the 1950’s, this former African American group has been enticed to come together again and perform in a comeback tour. Knobby was the original choreographer/manager for the group and will perform that function again.
Note: Doo-Wop is a genre of music that originated in African American communities in the late 1940’s. It became popular in the 1950’s.
The back-up singers from the Doves arrive: Frankie (Emir Hardy), Vern (Leslie Howard), Harvey (Sam Lothard) and Johnson (Charles Timbers). Conversation is non-stop as the group catches up with one another about what they’ve been up to currently. They then reminisce about the past, and their time (both pro and con) on the road. Each man has their own particular memories.
Knobby gets them into a semblance of order, maneuvering them into the familiar steps they performed years ago. After a few missteps they’re back in the swing again.
Lead singer Roscoe (Kevin Brown) arrives late (to no one’s surprise). He’s always been a source of contention to the other guys but now his decision about the group could affect their comeback.
Roscoe’s plan is to branch out on his own without the other Doves. He’s still looking for fame as a standalone singer. His contract with Eva Dee (Angelique A. Strothers), Roscoe’s wife, holds the key to the Doves’ future as well as the comeback tour itself.
Strothers is a standout. Her acting as the mercurial Eva Dee covers a range of emotions from sassy to vulnerable to dominating. Her singing and vocal range is outstanding. Excellent rendition of “Is There a Heaven for Folks with the Blues.”
Terry has many functions in his role as choreographer, and he plays them all exceptionally well. He is a mediator, a mentor, a voice of reason when things go awry.
Still trying to reach the top as a solo singer Brown’s performance covers a wide range of emotions. He is both cocky and vulnerable.
Timbers’ facial expressions are spot on. His emotions, whether happy, sad or indifferent are seen through that lens.
Howard portrays Vern as the wise and practical member of the group. He reminds them of tough times in the South when they were touring.
Lothard’s character loves to eat and his comedy often centers around his need for food even when the conversation is essential for the Doves’ future.
Between the many dance moves and songs Hardy’s eye patch becomes a matter of concern to the guys. The concern turns into comic interchanges as he confesses that his woman has his artificial eye and is holding it captive.
Manny Walker as J.R., does a great job as Knobby’s young assistant, showing off his youthful moves at the same time enjoying the Doves’ gymnastics as well.
All of the actors are exceptional entertainers. As a group they are well-balanced and their performances complement one another.
Get ready for an evening with super dancing, singing, splashes of drama and a dash of comedy.
“Get Ready” was written by Jaye T. Stewart and Joe Plummer with music composed by Joe Plummer and lyrics by Joe Plummer, Jaye and Debi Stewart.
Excellent Direction and Choreography by Joe Plummer.
-CED
“Get Ready” runs from October 30th to November 9th at the Pittsburgh Public Theater’s Helen Wayne Rauh Rehearsal Hall, 3rd Floor, 621 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15222. “Get Ready” is a production of New Horizon Theater, Inc. For tickets and additional information, click here.
