Frontiers Newsmagazine
Interesting and
Worthwhile
"...Levels' portrayal...captures
both Baldwin's strident and
honorable characteristics..."
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LA Weekly
Recommended
"...Levels' intense stage
presence beguiles..."
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LA Watts Times
Outstanding
"...a pleasing, must-see
theater experience."
Frontiers Newsmagazine
October 10, 2003
by Les Spindle
JAMES BALDWIN - DOWN FROM THE MOUNTAINTOP
African-American writer and civil-rights activist James Baldwin (1924-87) is a controversial yet revered historical figure. His egotistical and abrasive demeanor coupled with his courageous efforts to buck the system made him a fascinating personality, ripe for dramatization. Writer-actor Calvin Levels' portrayal of the openly gay Baldwin in a solo play directed by David Moses captures both Baldwin's strident and honorable characteristics, and is more involving than the common run of uninspired solo showcases. On the other hand, the two-act script sometimes feels superficial as it skims through a plethora of carefully researched details, and at times Levels' performance favors histrionics over substance.
The piece begins with Levels in his dressing room, contemplating the formidable task of bringing the iconic Baldwin to life. During the play, he intermittently interacts with the audience (apparently being Baldwin at some moments, Levels at others). He speaks of Baldwin's abusive father, the books and plays that catapulted him to fame and generated enormous backlash because of their provocative themes, and his eventual move to France when he became disillusioned with his career and life. Famous figures such as Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, and Elia Kazan appear in the story. There are candid references to Baldwin's excessive drinking and sexual alliances, and his disdain for director Lee Strasberg, whom he claims made mincemeat of his play "Blues for Mr. Charlie." Levels' play practically turns into a eulogy to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. toward the end, concluding on a moving though somewhat preachy note. The production is enhanced by an attractive interior set and superb video footage, including historical material. Despite its imperfections, this is an interesting and worthwhile glimpse at a groundbreaking human-rights crusader and prodigious writer.
Note:
This review is of a Hollywood, California
production with David Moses as director.
