Attended last night's performance and really enjoyed this.
It takes place near end of the Harlem Renaissance and the Great Depression. To know about it going in helps but the story stands on its own. I enjoyed that things didn't happen as I predicted them while watching. Very rich characters and good acting. I think Alfie Fuller is still trying to get that balance in her character Angel but you can see she knows where to go with it.
I was also impressed by the direction of the role of Guy. He could have been an over the top flamboyant man but the flamboyancy was toned down and you saw more of the human underneath.
The entire cast does a wonderful job. It is quite absorbing and packs a bit of a punch. Especially in Act II. I also liked the sound design. Some small touches that were nice. It just goes places you don't expect but are real. Well worth seeing.
My friend and I really loved this. The acting is incredible. John-Andrew Morrison was amazing as Guy, and I liked Alfie Fuller as Angel. My only problem is that Angel is such an opportunist and so calculating, it's hard to accept that anyone would want to have a relationship with her. Guy is so sweet and optimistic, they are quite a contrast. (He takes her in when she is down on her luck; they are friends.) The supporting players were wonderful too, fully realized except for the newcomer from Alabama. His character is kind of a stereotype of a born-again type. Comfortable theater and nice set. Highly recommended!
macnyc, I think that is where Ms Fuller might still be trying to find the balance. Alfie wants everything the rest of the characters want. I think that is evident at the end. I don't think she is calculating on purpose. I think in that pivotal scene she decides she needs to do for her. For me, it was one of those plays that even if the actor didn't quite convey things, the book does and you know what is going on with the character. I found it to be quite well written. JMO