Posted by | Ray Cornelius
Here are two theatrical productions coming to Atlanta stages that you don’t want to miss beginning next month. The first one up is the Alliance Theatre’s “Too Heavy for Your Pocket.”
In rural Tennessee at the height of the Civil Rights Movement two young couples struggle to understand justice, love, and their own responsibilities. When Bowzie gets a scholarship to attend Fisk University, he has the opportunity to improve his family’s life. His education goes beyond the classroom, as he becomes a Freedom Rider and joins the fight against racism in the Deep South, leaving his obligations as a husband and friend behind. A beautifully written look at the personal cost and private struggles behind public events, Too Heavy for Your Pocket speaks powerfully about the bonds of friendship and what defines true family. The 2017 winner of the Alliance/Kendeda National Graduate Playwriting Competition, the Alliance is thrilled to celebrate one of its own—playwright and former Kenny Leon Fellow Jiréh Breon Holder. “Too Heavy for your Pocket” runs from February 2-26 at the Hertz Stage. Click here for tickets and details.
The second show comes from Tony winner Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company and it titled, “Exit Strategy.” The hilarious comedy with an honest view point, centering on a Chicago public high school that is slated for closure at the end of the year. The impending shut-down causes tensions in the school’s already volcanic neighborhood to rise to the breaking point. As a small group of teachers launch a last-minute battle to save the school, they put their careers, future, and safety in the hands of a fast-talking administrator who comes on strong; but might actually have no clue what he’s doing. With our education system at the forefront of discussions in our community, “Exit Strategy” is timely, relevant, and relatable and stars Tracey Bonner, Diany Rodriguez, Ralph Del Rosario, Laurie Roach, Matthew Busch and Bill Murphey. “Exit Strategy” plays February 21-March 19 at The Southwest Arts Center. Click here for tickets and details.
Photo Credits: AllianceTheatre.org and TrueColorsTheatre.org
