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Norm Lewis to Star in Restaging of ‘Ceremonies in Dark Old Men’
Norm Lewis is set to take the stage in a new production of Lonnie Elder III’s acclaimed play, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men, which is directed by Clinton Turner Davis. Marking its return to New York City after nearly four decades, this highly anticipated show will run for a limited engagement of six weeks, starting April 11 at the Theatre at St. Clements. The official opening night is scheduled for Friday, April 18 at 7 PM.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s New York, the story revolves around Russell Parker, a barber with a troubled past who is also a widowed father of three adult children. While Russell spends his time playing checkers and reflecting on his days as a vaudeville performer, his two sons, Theo and Bobby, are drawn into a life of petty crime, seeking quick gains through dangerous bootlegging and numbers games. Meanwhile, the only hardworking family member, daughter Adele, faces her own struggles and eventually threatens to leave, refusing to be overworked as her mother was. As tensions rise and the looming failure of the boys’ criminal endeavors unfolds, the family grapples with dire repercussions.
Joining Norm Lewis in the cast are Jeremiah Packer, Calvin M. Thompson, and Bryce Michael Wood, each bringing their unique talents to this powerful narrative.
The production boasts an impressive creative team, featuring scenic design by Harry Feiner, costume design by Isabel Rubio, and lighting design by Jimmy Lawlor. Co-producing the show are Willette and Manny Klausner, David S. Stone, Linda Powell, Jamie deRoy, Annaleise Loxton, and Jamila Ponton Bragg.
Originally premiered by the Negro Ensemble Company in 1969 at St. Mark’s Playhouse, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men quickly established itself with a successful commercial run and garnered acclaim, even being a runner-up for the 1969 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Its impact led to adaptations, including a television movie in 1975 and various Off-Broadway revivals, securing its status as a classic in American theater history. Notable performers who have been involved with the play include Denzel Washington, Billy Dee Williams, Keith David, and Laurence Fishburne.
Norm Lewis, recognized for his extensive accolades including Emmy, Tony, and SAG Award nominations, recently appeared in the national tour of the Tony Award-winning A Soldier’s Play and participated in the West End concert of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies. His film credits include Spike Lee’s critically acclaimed Da 5 Bloods and roles in the groundbreaking FX series Pose. Additionally, Lewis appears alongside Hilary Swank in the upcoming feature The Good Mother, and in recent series on Amazon Prime and Hulu.
Mr. Lewis previously made history as the first African American to portray the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. His notable performances span an impressive range, from Once on This Island to his portrayal of Sweeney Todd, earning him an AUDELCO Award. He has contributed significantly to various PBS specials and has participated in numerous television series with roles in Law & Order, Scandal, and more.
A founding member of Black Theatre United, Norm Lewis advocates for the representation and protection of Black individuals and talents in theater. His remarkable performances have earned him numerous nominations and awards, reflecting his influence and contribution to the arts.
With the anticipation surrounding this revival, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men promises to deliver a compelling exploration of family, dreams, and the harsh realities faced by those navigating complex social landscapes.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com