Donna Hernandez

Expatriate

The Culture Project, a theater in Soho in New York City known for its dedication to theater for progressive change, is currently showing Expatriate, a new play with music about race, friendship, art and fame.

Lenelle MoÏse, the playwright who also plays the role of Claudie, is accompanied by Karla Mosley who plays the role of Alphine. Both Lenelle and Karla deliver a stunning performance about two young women who are plagued by grief, drugs, homophobia and the supposed role of a Black woman in America. In the likes of Black women artists like Josephine Baker and Nina Simone, they decide to leave the U.S. for Paris, France and embark on a life in music.

Life blooms for both women in ways that were at times known, feared and imagined in Paris. Their journey was a great to see; their stories were often sad and sometimes joyful, but always worth watching.

The music, humor and both of the women’s voices were compelling. Their story of rising to fame and the baggage that comes with it had me sitting on the edge of my seat.

Expatriate will be showing at the Culture Project theater on 55 Mercer Street in New York City. Opening night is on July 16th. Special performances by Nuyorican Poets café artists will take place every Friday before the play. For more information visit www.cultureproject.org

Posted at 9:52 AM, Jul 15, 2008 in Music & Film | Permalink | View Comments