BWW Reviews: Black Rep's Premiere Production of SMASH/HIT!

I'm still not sure exactly how I feel about the Black Rep's latest premiere production, Smash/Hit!, although there is certainly a lot of potential to the story, and various elements that make up the plot, it's not completely cohesive. There's an awful lot to digest here in this drama that contains music, which might be better served as a complete musical (or as a less musical drama), instead of winding up neither fish nor fowl. But, I can't honestly say that I can't recommend this show, because it is engagingly acted, contains some catchy tracks, and has fine overall direction. It's a mixed bag, but it's a mixed bag worth seeing for yourself.

The setting is Spin City, the World of Hip Hop in the years between 2000-2005. Money and Chance are two rappers looking to make it in the big time, with their name even reflecting their attitude; "No Plan B". But, that's not a realistic outlook, because Money's girlfriend Joi is pregnant. Because Money grew up without a father, he's determined that this won't happen to his own child, and he enlists in the reserves in order to make a living for his new family. In the meantime, Chance hooks up with Good Boy, a promoter/agent/radio personality, who's looking for some fresh acts. When Money returns from battle, he's scarred by the experience, and he wants his lyrics to be more honest and real. This creates conflict with Chance, because he just wants to record a hit. Oh, and we find out Chance is gay as well. All this leads to a conclusion that's true to its characters, but downbeat nonetheless.

Ronald L. Conner is exceptional as Money, bursting with a creative spark that goes dark once he endures a round of combat. Conner neatly transitions from player to walking wounded, brandishing a pistol at the most inopportune moments, and contemplating suicide when there so seems to be no future that isn't fractured by his experiences. Matthew Galbreath is playful and energetic as Chance, and together they have a nice chemistry that makes their being "blood brothers" convincing, and both display sharp rap skills that serve the story well. Justin Ivan Brown does smooth work as Good Boy, enticing Chance with his ability to link him up with studio time and appearances, but turning off Money with his slick behavior and choice of venues. FeliceSkye is good as Joi, but she's only given a little bit to chew on here, even though the part cries out for more. Her resignation at her circumstance is undeniably real, but you'd like a bit more fight out of her. DJ Super Nova does great work mixing the grooves for the underscore as well as the songs that are showcased.

Ron Himes does fine work here, and even though the show runs about a half hour to forty-five minutes too long, he keeps the action moving at a brisk pace, which is aided by Jim Burwinkels starkly simple scenic design. David Warfel's lighting quickly adjusts between the flashy rap numbers, and the more intimate scenes. Lou Bird's costumes fit the characters well, and Robin Weatherall's sound design adds necessary feel to the proceedings.

Steven Broadnax and Michael S. Bordner have crafted an intriguing and entertaining play with Smash/Hit!, and while it doesn't quite live up to its name, it's a piece that could be molded into either a powerful musical, or a more succinct and affecting drama with music. Check out the Black Rep's production of Smash/Hit!, now playing at the Grandel Theatre through May 18, 2013.

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