“Radio Golf” reviewed by Michael Horn

[rating=5]The Court Theatre opens its 64th season with “Radio Golf” by August Wilson; the tenth and final play in Wilson’s American Century Cycle. This play was completed only a few month’s before Wilson’s death in 2005, and has been described by some, as a play that Wilson rushed to completion and somehow is thinner than his other works.  The Court Theatre’s production under the superb direction of Ron OJ Parson contravenes that misguided impression and reveals the brilliance of this work; August Wilson would be proud.

Set in the 1990’s, Radio Golf depicts the urban restoration plan for the Hill District of Pittsburgh by two college friends.  Harmond Wilks (Allen Gilmore), is a real estate developer who is also aspiring to become the first black mayor of Pittsburgh.  He is supported by his wife, Mame, (Ann Joseph) who is ambitious and on the brink of becoming the PR Director for the Govenor of Pennsylvania.   His longtime friend Roosevelt Hicks (James Vincent Meredith), is a banker, but has his eyes fixed on moving up the economic ladder, working a side deal to become a partner in a radio station.   Together they are on the verge of finalizing a big deal to revitalize the Hill with a Whole Foods Market, a Starbucks, a Barnes and Noble, and an apartment complex.  Well, the “Blue Skies” that Roosevelt sees become gray when it is discovered that there is a house in the way that must be torn down to make way for the new center and complex.

Entering the picture is Old Joe Marlow (Alfred H. Wilson) who is looking for a “Christian”.  He also needs a lawyer and badgers Harmond to help him.  It turns out that he says he owns the house that is to be torn down and he wants to stop it.  Further investigation by Harmond reveals that “Old Joe” is correct and that the property was not properly conveyed.  This sets up a moral issue with Harmond who wants to do the “right” thing, but, Roosevelt explodes when told of the situation and skirts the moral and legal aspect of the matter.  His focus is on completing the deal, moving forward, forgetting about the past.

Adding to the story is Sterling Johnson (James T. Alfred), a contruction worker with a storied past and an old classmate of Harmond.   He has heard about the new development project and is looking for work.  But,he sees the negative impact that the project will have on the neighborhood and its history, and doesn’t hold back his opinions. His voice is loud and clear, you cannot forget your past!

This may be my favorite August Wilson play because it is more recent and so relevant today.  In this play his characters savor the possibilty of success in mainstream white society; money, stocks, real estate, and even golf!  It took awhile to mature, but with the right direction this play soars!  It has all of Wilson’s messages about money, morality, and opportunity, and it sails quickly through its two act, 140 minute voyage.

This is a terrific ensemble of actors who bring so much skill, experience, and passion to their roles. Their chemistry is apparent and each one is equal to the expectations of the playwright and the director.

Allen Gilmore is outstanding as Harmond Wilkes. He portrays him with calmness and patience, demonstrating that he is a good listener. But he shows us that there is a moral compass spinning inside his head that will ultimately lead him to make a series of decisions that will impact everything. His passionate soliloquy on values to Roosevelt near the end of the play is memorable.

James Vincent Meredith portrays Roosevelt Hicks with fire and brimstone, what power!  Here we see a character who ignores the past, wants to be part of the mainstream white society and will do anything to achieve his goal.  Meredith is excellent in this role, giving us a reason to like and dislike him at the same time.

Ann Joseph plays Mame Wilks with confidence and authority.  Mame has given up much herself in support of Harmond but in the end finds her independence. Ms. Joseph lets us feel her ambition and pain and ultimately her love.

Alfred H. Wilson is  hilarious as the eccentric Elder Joe Barlow.  His portrayal is charming yet purposeful, and makes you hope he will, against all odds, win in the end.

James T. Alfred is excellent as Stering Johnson who is the the plays’ conscience.  He exhibits great timing and skill as he jousts with the protagonists, reminding them of what is important.

I can’t say enough about Ron OJ Parson’s direction of this production, it is masterful!  The transition from scene to scene is so good, the use of lighting and music is so good, and the chemistry of the troupe is so good!! Mr. Parson has a magic wand that brings out the best of everyone and his skill gives this play the energy and life it was missing.

The set design by Jack Magaw is excellent and realistic. The details from the boombox, to the lamps in the windows, to the stairway and signs outside the front door are a perfect backdrop for the story that unfolds.

The lighting by Claire Chrzan provides the right amount of ambience for each scene and the sound design by M. LaPorte brings well chosen period music to each scene/transition.

This is a truly remarkable production that will keep you engaged, smiling, and reflecting every inch of the way, don’t miss it.

Radio Golf will run through September 30, 2018

Schedule:  Wed,Thurs/Fri:  7:30PM

                   Sat/Sun:    2:00PM & 7:30PM     

Location:   Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL

Tickets:      $50-$74 Box Office: (773) 753-4472 or www.Courttheatre.org

FREE Parking is available in the garage next to the theater.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click “Radio Golf”