BWW Reviews: AUTUMN at Crossroads is an Excellent and Riveting Political Drama

"Politics and Idealism are a toxic combination."

- Autumn

Crossroads Theatre is now showing an extraordinary World Premiere play, Autumn written by playwright and screenwriter, Richard Wesley. The production will be on the New Brunswick stage through May 3rd. Superbly directed by Seret Scott, it features an outstanding cast. With performances through this weekend only, get your tickets now for this fine theatrical event on the New Brunswick stage.

Autumn is a drama with many layers. Wesley has created a timely, pertinent story about American politics, cronyism, and race. The scenes are so authentic, so moving, it seems the events are happening in real time.

In the play, Franklyn Longley is an old-school, big-city mayor who expects to cement his legacy with a history-making governorship. But it is Ronald Drayton, his younger protégé and godson, who is chosen by the party to run for the office instead. Mounting tensions reveal personal conflicts, ethical differences and deep political divides.

Jerome Preston Bates masters the role of the tenacious mayor, Franklyn Langley with a portrayal of the character's many dimensions that include ambition, charm and duplicity. As he states, "Just because something is unethical that doesn't mean it's illegal."

Michael Chenevert captures the role of Ronald Drayton, the well-educated and idealistic young man who seems to be destined for higher office. His character creates a perfect contrast to the bombastic mayor.

Count Stovall plays Zach Drayton with just the right tenor, reserved and thoughtful as he deals with a terminal illness. This is a pivotal character, an insider who is both the mayor's long time Chief of Staff and the father of Ronald.

Stephanie Berry plays Tricia Johnson whose family and financial difficulties reflect the circumstances of the urban poor. She delivers a compelling performance in scenes that reflect just how city policies affect individuals.

Rounding out the cast are wonderful performances by Kim Weston-Moran as Franklyn's wife, Melissa, Joseph Mancusa as the local contractor Calabrese, and Terria Joseph as the sitting governor.

Autumn is more than a political drama. It is a play for deep consideration, one you will think about long after the curtain call. This important play should have a long life in the theater.

The creative team for Autumn has brought a sense of city politics to the stage with sound design by Matt Bittner, set design by Chris Cumberbatch, props by Sadae Hori, costuming design by Ali Turns and lighting design by Ves Weaver. Zoya Kachadurian is the Production Stage Manage.

Crossroads Theatre Company is located at 7 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick in the heart of the city's vibrant arts district. Autumn is being performed on April 23, 24, 25, 30, May 1, 2 at 8 p.m.; April 25, 26, May 2, 3 at 3 p.m.; April 29 at 10 a.m. Tickets: $25, $35, $45. Call (732) 545-8100 or purchase online at crossroadstheatrecompany.org.

Photo Credit: William M. Brown

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