Penumbra extends powerhouse production of 'Get Ready'

Penumbra Theatre last week announced the addition of twelve performances of Get Ready due to popular demand, extending the production through Sunday, July 22, 2007.

The powerhouse cast features the talents of Lucas Bellamy, Jamecia Bennett, Benny S. Cannon. James Craven, Shawn Hamilton, T. Mychael Rambo, Dennis W. Spears, and J.D. Steele. They are joined by a live band led by Sanford Moore. The electric chemistry is palpable on numbers such as “I Call It Love,” “Got to Get to Know Her,” and “Love on Your Side.” Together, this star studded ensemble raises the roof with a rollicking good time!

Director Lou Bellamy says, “This season, in celebration of our 30th Anniversary, we set out to honor the rich history of African American musical entertainment. Get Ready offers a wonderful close to the season as it addresses the struggle to find dignity and strength through musical expression, recognizing music as both highly personal and as a method of forging connections and community with
others.”

The Doves, middle-aged crooners whose heyday was circa 1960, embody the essence of performers like Al Green, Otis Redding, and The Platters. Their dance instructor, Knobby Coles, comes from an earlier generation of great vaudevillian performers such as The Nicholas brothers and Bill “Bo Jangles” Robinson. Knobby’s employee, J.R., is a young man who dreams of getting his break from a music contest much like “American Idol.” Get Ready celebrates the musical achievements of three generations of music makers with great 1960’s song and dance numbers, yet still touches on some of the challenges they faced.

In this play, The Doves’ hit song from their days of glory has made a comeback, climbing to the top of the music charts. A reunion tour is scheduled and the five crooners get back together. They may be a bit rusty, but they still have the magic – that wonderful combination of soulfulness and sweet sincerity that made the ladies swoon. Along with the old music come the old conflicts too. Their dreams, egos and loyalties require a reckoning with the past. Told with humor and real tenderness, Get Ready is the story of legendary musicians stepping once again into the light.