The direction by Stevie Walker-Webb is tight and minimal (minus the comically clunky set), putting the acting and the incredible vocals front and center. The book and lyrics by Angelica Chéri (descendent of the Clarke sisters) and music by Ross Baum provide the ideal platform for a number of standout performances—several of which are award-worthy.
R&B artist Ledisi is electric as the matriarch of the Clarke family who dreams of owning her own land, something that wasn’t previously possible in an America driven by slavery. In her humble skirt and blouse, it’s impossible to take your eyes off of Ledisi, who delivers a top-notch performance and vocals for the ages. She particularly excels in the musical’s second song, “Inheritance,” which could arguably be the strongest in this two-and-a-half-hour show.
Playing her daughters are the incredible Solea Pfeiffer as Mary and Liisi LaFontaine as Martha. Both women are at turns funny, moving and fierce as they attempt to escape their past in hopes of a better future.
