I had the pleasure of viewing the last show of the new stage play, Stripped. Written and produced by Dorsey Levens and Tiffany Brown, Stripped was not the stage play you are used to, this one was fresh in subject matter as well as the faces that graced the stage. Stripped peeled away the layers of the life of a professional football player, from his finances to the love of his life.
In this play you get a real, usually unseen view, of what athletes go through off the field. We see the women that pursue them, being the bread winner and financial source for friends and family, and then adjusting to retiring and a decreasing income.
The things that stood out in the play other than the intense subject matter, was that it didn’t- beat-me-over- the- head with religion. Now, don’t get me wrong, there was a religious overtone, because most of us are comfortable in our beliefs and are adamant about thanking a higher power- so for me it was just enough, and not overwhelming like a lot of plays.
Another innovative aspect of the play was the use of a drop down movie screen, which showed pre recorded scenes to assist in making the story complete. It helped to fill the gaps and also to give insight on the storyline. And instead of every cast member bursting into song in the middle of a conversation, there was a husband and wife Duo, Mahogany Dust- that performed between the scenes with songs relevant to the moment.
When I arrived at the Ferst Center for the Arts, I expected to like the play, but I did more than that. I enjoyed it, it made me think. I wondered about the lives of football players that I know. I laughed, literally out loud and I even shed a tear. It was not only entertaining but an eye opener. Not just football players, but everyone should be preparing for the future. The unique look inside relationships, and what he or she wants and needs, or are willing to do for the other. I loved it.
Usually, I decide how I really feel about tv, or movies, and plays, based on if I would sit and watch it again— Stripped? Absolutely! So when it comes back to Atlanta, or if its in your town make sure you check it out.
I am betting you that this isn’t your typical stage play and you haven’t seen this story before.
The cast consisted of Dorsey Levens, Rashan Ali, Lisa Wu- Hartwell, Anthony Hall, Karon Joseph Riley, Lilian Lee, Emily Reily Russell, Dawn Halfkenny, Arle Michele, Kenneth L. Zirkman, Roderick Minger, and Ryan Stewart of the 2 Live Stews.
This review is dead on. I couldnt have said it better. 2 thumbs up.
Awh thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed it as well!
Thanks Brown Girl. I wanted to see this, but missed it. Great review Shana 5.
Sorry you missed it Kantis! I really did enjoy it… And thank you!! XOXO