Sunday, November 23, 2008

Ruined (Goodman Theatre) - 11/23/08

"Ruined" by Lynn Nottage, is receiving a world premier production at the Goodman Theatre. The play takes place in a brothel in war-torn Congo. Needless to say, the play is inescapably tragic. However, it is also ultimately quite life-affirming and joyous. The show is stunningly and authentically performed by a stellar cast, but I have to single out the Saidah Arrika Ekuloma as the owner of the brothel. Hers is a performance with the force of a hurricane; you cannot take your eyes off of her. The show is a co-production with the Manhattan Theatre Club, so it's headed to New York after its Chicago engagement. Don't miss it while it's here.

Rating: **** (out of *****)

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