BWW Reviews: LETTERS FROM ZORA at Crossroads Theatre is Exceptional

"I was a writer, heart and soul."

Letters from Zora: In Her Own Words

Crossroads Theatre Company is now presenting Letters from Zora: In Her Own Words through October 25th. Written by Gabrielle Denise Pina, directed by Anita Dahiell-Sparks with music by Ron McCurdy, this one-woman show stars the incomparable Vanessa Bell Calloway.

Letters from Zora is an important piece of theater not to be missed. It is an authentic multi-sensory dramatization of personal letters and an uncompromising, intimate view of author Zora Neale Hurston, whose written works have touched generations of readers.

Pina's play absolutely captures the spirit of Hurston. By using her letters laced with personal sentiments and a variety of physical settings, the play moves seamlessly from scene to scene. Dahiell-Sparks provides direction that makes every moment of the 90 minute show a piece of art. McCurdy's music provides the idea background for this production that can only be described as theatrical perfection.

Vanessa Bell Calloway so completely portrays the feisty, savvy, intellectually vibrant Hurston, you will forget that you are at Crossroads and believe that you are accompanying Zora on her incredible life's journey. The character of Hurston is developed onstage from young childhood to the highs and lows of her personal life and career. Calloway's talent for drama, humor, and dancing is well realized in this production and she will bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.

Zora Neale Hurston was a well-educated black woman, an anthropologist, folklorist and Guggenheim fellow who travelled considerably to perform anthropological research. Yet her penchant for writing and communication dominated her life. Books like Their Eyes Were Watching God, her short stories and plays are true gems. And, while her views were at times controversial, she expressed herself without reservation. Letters from Zora: In Her Own Words portrays a true individualist. In the play, Zora declares, "I'd be an entirely different woman if I worried about what people thought about me." And, it is this inspiring undaunted spirit that audiences can relish this fall at The Crossroads Theatre Company.

And, with Original Scenic Design by Manuel Prieto, Lighting Design by Phil Kong, Costume Design by Mylette Nora, Projections Design by Margie Labadie and Production Design by Jumbo Arts, the creative team makes Letters from Zora a truly authentic theatrical experience.

Letters from Zora: In Her Own Words will be presented at the Crossroads Theatre Company through October 25th. The theatre is located at 7 Livingston Avenue in the heart of New Brunswick's vibrant art's district. For more information and ticketing, please call (732) 545-8100 or visit www.crossroadstheatrecompany.org.

Photo Credit: William M. Brown