Review: History Comes to Life in ROSA PARKS AND THE MONTGOMERY BUS BOYCOTT At The Coterie Theatre

Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott opened with a roar on Friday September 26 at the Coterie Theatre in Kansas City, Mo. "When you have your hand in the lion's mouth it is best to pat it on the head. . ." The lion is segregation and it is Rosa Parks and the Civil Rights Movement that is patting it on the head. Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, written by Sue Greenberg, opened the 2014-2015 season for the theater.

The gospel standards entwined throughout the production emphasize the action or dialogue presented on stage. The production at times comes across as a historical narration with sparse interaction between the characters, mixed with wonderful vocals. Whether viewed as a history rendition or a musical this exceptional production is one that everyone should see. Greenberg offers an abundance of significant information that young people should learn, and older members of the audience may have forgotten.

In 1955 Rosa Parks, a 42-year old seamstress, refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama segregated bus to a white passenger. Arrested she goes to jail then trial for violating local segregation laws. Her refusal spearheads the Civil Rights Movement that would follow.

Directed by Brad Shaw, Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott stars Antonia Washington as the iconic Rosa Parks. "I always wanted to play the part of a strong powerful woman" Washington said "and I am honored to get to play Rosa Parks." She demonstrates commitment to the part, coupled with a wonderful voice and magnetism, giving the audience a splendid performance.

It was during this time that a young preacher would come to the forefront to lead his people towards equality. That young preacher of course was Martin Luther King, Jr., who is magnificently portrayed by Frank Oakley III. As with the other characters, except Rosa Parks, he plays several parts in the production. Michael Ott plays a cop, a reporter who shows little interest in the cause until boycott is mentioned, the judge, an angry bus driver, and Mayor among others that represent the plays antagonist white racism.

Cindy K. Siefers gives a good performance as a white woman who sympathizes with Rosa Parks and the movement, among other characters. Sherri Roulette-Mosley and Shon Ruffin both play a multitude of roles, each significant to the progression of the production.

Ron Lackey plays activist E. D. Nixon, Rosa's brother Sylvester, and a bus passenger. Lackey has a fabulous voice and delivers a powerful performance. He will next appear at the Coterie in Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, the Musical, in the role performed by the late Burl Ives.

Shaw not only directs the fine cast he also was responsible for the musical direction and designed the costumes. Trevor Frederiksen designed the meager set, with lighting by Art Kent.

After the opening night performance, the Kansas City Boys Choir and Kansas City Girls Choir under the artistic direction of Ah'Lee E. Robinson performed the world premiere of "Rosa" by composer Ralvell Rogers II. The combined chorus will return to the Coterie stage the weekend of October 10 through 12.

Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Boycott runs through October 19 at the Coterie. Purchase tickets by calling 816-474-6552 or visit the Coterie Theatre website. Photo by J. Robert Schraeder courtesy of The Coterie Theatre.

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