BWW Reviews: The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Masterful Production of SAFE HOUSE

America has a rich history, some of which, of course, we'd all prefer to forget. But, to ignore them can just lead to repeating them, and we all should know better than that by now. However, it's important that we continue to mine the events of the past in order to enlighten and provoke discussion. This is the very thing that Keith Josef Adkins' brilliant work Safe House does with a considerable amount of power and conviction. It's a story set in Kentucky in 1843, when slavery was still very much a resident evil that ruled the land, even though there were African Americans who were freeborn. The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is currently presenting this new play, and as they always seem to have a knack for doing, it's done in a completely compelling and infinitely memorable fashion that makes for a truly moving and enriching experience.

The story is about the attempts of Addison Pedigrew to establish his own shoe shop in his home after having undergone a two year period where his family was punished for helping runaway slaves escape to Liberia. The time has now passed, and Addison is anxious to set up his business, taking pride in his workmanship as a cobbler, and wanting folks to come to him now, instead of undergoing the humiliation of going door to door to convince people to utilize his services. Things seem to be on the upturn, but he doesn't count on the charity of his Aunt Dorcas or brother Frank when a slave sets fire to her master's house, killing him in the process, and flees to them looking for aid. This sets the plot in motion, with an outcome that forever change their lives and dreams.

Daniel Morgan Shelley is simply exceptional as the ambitious Addison, filled with pride at the footwear he is able to create, and determined to find his place in this world. Will Cobbs also does outstanding work as his troublesome brother Frank, who seems to have a knack for getting on the bad side of the local constable. Kelly Taffe is also excellent as Dorcas, with a tender heart that has a way of getting them in trouble. Michael Sean McGuinness is strong as Bracken, who works for the sheriff and has the sad duty of having to enforce the laws that have kept the Pedigrews from achieving the goals they so desperately seek. But, he has a soft spot for Aunt Dorcas, having made rag dolls out of old aprons for her they were both much younger. Raina Houston lends an impetuous quality to her portrayal of Clarissa, a woman that Addison would like to make his wife, but who has secret meetings with her true love, Frank. Cassia Thompson brings a edge to her role as the slave Frank and Dorcas take in, and though you want to abhor some of her behavior, it's perfectly understandable given the circumstances she has endured.

Melissa Maxwell expertly directs this production, pulling particularly special performances from her ensemble, while mining the material for all it's provocative drama and surprising humor. Peter and Margery Spack create a superb scenic design that neatly recreates the period, and they're aided by Myrna Colley-Lee's nicely rendered costumes. Mark Wilson lights it all with flair, keeping us clearly focused on both the mood and the action that occurs, and Scott O'Brien's compositions and sound design add just the right atmosphere.

This is an amazing piece of theatre that fulfills my requirements with considerable aplomb; it makes you laugh, it makes you cry, and it's genuinely thought-provoking. The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis has fully realized this play by Keith Josef Adkins, and it's something you absolutely have to see. The production continues through February 8, 2015 in the cozy confines of the Studio Theatre of the Loretto-Hilton. This is an undeniably moving masterpiece.

Photo credit: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

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