Steppenwolf Theatre production features fine Chicago actresses
The younger actors are funny indeed but FAMILIAR’s three accomplished Chicago actresses of color (and maturity) – Ora Jones, Jacqueline Williams and Cheryl Lynn Bruce – steal the show. As sisters with a tormented past, each has distinct views on their shared Zimbabwean lineage. While Jones’ domineering Marvelous made sure her daughters never learned their native language Shona, Anne arrives unexpectedly from Africa to oversee the roora – a traditional ceremony in which a munyai (messenger) for the groom presents the dowry to the bride’s family. Chris volunteers Brad to serve as his munyai and Anne, played with firm conviction by Bruce, teaches this Midwestern guy how to greet elders with respect.
For this viewer, FAMILIAR’s promising first act gives way to a second act that stuffs too many personalities and topics into too little space. As a result, it fails to explore its rich themes and painful history with satisfying fullness. But that said, the portrait of the Chinyaramwiras and the messy relatives who disrupt their Martha Stewart Living lives is a colorful study in contrasts.
