Court Theatre presents Spunk directed by Seret Scott
Court Theatre Artistic Director Charles Newell and Executive Director Stephen J. Albert open the Company's 57th Season with Spunk, adapted from the short stories of Zora Neale Hurston by George C. Wolfe with music by Chic Street Man and directed by Seret Scott. Spunk will run September 8 - October 9, 2011 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue.
"I git to the git with some pain n' some spit n' some spunk." The verdant, earthy language of Zora Neale Hurston (Their Eyes Were Watching God) is animated through the music of the blues in these three tales of love, revenge, and redemption. Adapted by George C. Wolfe (The Colored Museum) and featuring musical narration composed by blues artist Chic Street Man, Spunk breathes new life into these three remarkable short stories from the Harlem Renaissance.
"The simplicity of Spunk's storytelling creates complexity just as its color and texture impart humanity," says director Seret Scott. "The intricate humanity of these stories makes them timeless. However, they resonate particularly in this Modern era when safety nets and certainty are dissolving just as they were for Zora and her characters. This play is perfect for Court Theatre because it presents classic stories that resonate in the present moment."
Spunk features Alexis J. Rogers (Porgy and Bess) as Blues Speak Woman, Chris Boykin, Kenn E. Head, Patrese D. McClain, Kelvyn Bell, and Michael Pogue.
The creative team includes Tom Burch (scenic design), Joshua Horvath (sound design), Janice Pytel (costume design), and Mark Stubblefield (lighting design). Amber Johnson is the Stage Manager and Sara Gammage is the Production Stage Manager. Drew Dir is the Production Dramaturg. Kelvyn Bell is the Music Director.