A review of the play by local playwright, Eileen Giddens
Scenes ranged from zesty to serene to comical in the Eileen Giddens production of “If A Man Dies.” A talented cast presented this musical at Hawkins Park on Saturday, October 12, with two performances. Eileen Giddens is a local playwright who has written and produced numerous plays. Initially using cast from her church membership, she decided to open her cast up to members of the Birmingham community.
This riveting play highlights the lives of two men from “different walks of life.” One gentleman (Phillip) who is a minister persuades the other one, who is a drug dealer (Earl), to give his life to the Lord, but chaos quickly follows this life-changing decision. Scene one opens with two sisters (Joy and Cammy) communicating via phone about the lives of the two men from their former neighborhood. Turbulent and dramatic scenes collide and produce a positive message of hope and faith in Jesus Christ.
Audio was by Pastor Christopher A. Wren, video by Lester Burrows, dances were performed by Birmingham Dance. Background scenery by Connie Gardner.
“I have worked with Mrs. Giddens several times in the past, she is a conscientious, and creative writer,” mentions Dr. Berry. Mrs. Giddens incorporates real-life situations with the Gospel of Jesus Christ in her plays, and the public can expect to see more of Mrs. Giddens.
The cast and characters included: Jewell Buchanan who played young Cammy; Yvonne Johnson played the adult Cammy; Jalyn Garner played young Joy; Rose Gordon played the adult Joy; Martin Luther Garner, Jr. played young Phillip; Luther Burrows played the adult Phillip; Lesley V. Hall, Jr., played the young Earl; Livingston Gordon played the adult Earl; Raymond D. Hall played the sick child; Steven Martin played the deaf boy; Phillip Martin played Ben, LaDarius Allen played Bull; James Moore played both Carl and Boo-man; Ejella Gardner played both May and Sister Pauline; Cathy Smith played Shirley; Marilyn Stoves played Mrs. Kenneth; church members were played by Olivia Garner and Jan Berry, finally Eileen Giddens played Pearl.
You can expect to hear more from Gidden’s Productions and cast.
This play is available for booking. For more information on upcoming plays or bookings, contact Eileen Giddens @ (205) 222-5304. For more information on how to be a part of the Woodlawn Ballet (permanent residence of Birmingham Dance) contact Adair Whetstone at (205) 919-9960; Dr. Berry at (205) 422-8506.
