BWW Reviews; The Black Rep Brings Their Season to a Close with Lively Production of THE ME NOBODY KNOWS

The Me Nobody Knows is a musical plea for understanding by a group of underprivileged children that's set in one of the poorer neighborhoods of New York City. It's an indictment of our current social and economic conditions that this show, written in 1970, explores themes and issues that still resonate with audiences today. The current production by the Black Rep is a rousing and entertaining show that features a young and talented cast.

 There is no plot to speak of, only a few threads that run through the course of the show, such as one young man's lonely frustration over the lack of correspondence he's received from his relatives while incarcerated. Instead, we see and hear these kids openly expressing their feelings, their hopes, their dreams, and their fears. Sometimes we're treated to incendiary speeches that cut right to the heart of the matter, and sometimes we're met with a barrage of non sequiturs that seem to follow no premise or theme whatsoever. The glue that binds these disparate elements together can be found in the spirited and catchy compositions of Gary William Friedman (music) and Will Holt (lyrics) that accompany them.

This is truly an ensemble piece, and as such I'm not going to single out any individual performers, because all of them share in the creation of this engaging presentation. Tre'von Griffith, Delaney Hayes, Dominique Milam, Abigail Oldham, John Reed II, Alessandra Silva, Vero'nica Silva, Demetrius Sylvester, Anthony Tarvin, Jr., Chauncy Thomas, Sharisa Whatley, Alexis White, Tyler White and Peter Winfrey are all terrific, and filled with a sense of joy and enthusiasm. And they're consistent, whether they're taking the spotlight, or producing a warm and inviting sound while harmonizing together.

Ron Himes does really strong work with this group, getting them all on the same page and clearly focused. He's aided by Heather Beal's lively choreography and Charles Creath's always solid work as musical director. Creath also contributes on keyboards, leading a crack band that includes William Ranier (bass) and Keith Fowler (drums). Regina Garcia's set reflects a genuine sense of urban decay with its twin tenements and well worn stoops. Elizabeth Harper's lighting captures the mood, and Melissa Trn's costumes fit the period accurately.

The Black Rep's compelling production of The Me Nobody Knows continues through June 27, 2010 at the Grandel Theatre.