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Edited and Published by Robert W. McDowell
December 12, 2024 Issue |
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A FREE Weekly E-mail Newsletter Covering Theater, Dance, Music, and Film in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill/Carrboro Area of North Carolina Since April 2001. |
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PART 3A: TRIANGLE THEATER REVIEW BY DANI DANIELA |
The North Carolina Opera's Must-See Production of
The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson Celebrates
the Black Opera Singer and Voice Teacher
Experiencing the North Carolina Opera's Dec. 13-15 production of The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, with music by Carlos Simon and book and lyrics by Sandra Seaton, is a powerful introduction to the world of opera. This production goes beyond honoring Mary Cardwell Dawson's achievements; it reflects the ongoing struggle for representation and equity in the arts. Her fight to create space for Black artists in a segregated industry remains as relevant today as it was during her lifetime. For someone like me, experiencing opera for the first time, this performance opened my eyes to the power of representation and the lasting impact of Dawson's legacy.
The playbill underscores the significance of Dawson's mission: "Just as Mary Cardwell Dawson opens doors for the next generation of singers, your contributions help us continue that legacy." These words resonated deeply throughout the performance, reinforcing the need to support spaces where all voices can thrive. What Dawson fought for must not remain in the past; it calls us to keep building a future where diversity in the arts is not only possible but inevitable.
The North Carolina Opera's production of The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson stars (from left) Díana Thompson-Brewer
as Isabelle, Denyce Graves as Mary Cardwell Dawson, and Taylor-Alexis DuPont as Phoebe (photo by Eric Waters)Voices and Direction That Amplify a Legacy
Denyce Graves captures the fierce determination and strength of Madison, NC native Mary Cardwell Dawson (1894-1962) with remarkable depth. Her portrayal emphasizes the urgency and passion of a woman who refused to let systemic barriers silence her voice or the artists she championed. Graves' performance serves as a reminder of the resilience required to make change.
The ensemble works in harmony to bring this story to life. Taylor-Alexis DuPont's vibrant and commanding Phoebe brings a sense of hope and confidence to the stage, whereas Díana Thompson-Brewer adds a youthful playfulness in her portrayal of Isabelle. Johnnie Felder, as Frank, infuses his performance with humor and charm, offering a lighthearted counterpoint to the more serious themes.
Donald Lee III's role as the pianist and music director underscores how every element is vital to the whole. His presence, though subtle, is the steady foundation that supports the vocal brilliance of the cast. Under Kimille Howard's direction, the production comes together with clarity and focus, highlighting both the artistry and activism inherent in Dawson's legacy.
The North Carolina Opera's Dec. 13-15 version of The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson stars (from left) Taylor-Alexis DuPont as Phoebe,
Denyce Graves as Mary Cardwell Dawson, Johnnie Felder as Frank, and Díana Thompson-Brewer as Isabelle (photo by Eric Waters)Design and Atmosphere That Speak Without Words
The visual and technical elements of the production add layers of richness. Jessica Jahn's costume design, particularly the striking color of Dawson's dress, is visually captivating and symbolically powerful. James F. Rotondo III's scenic design transports the audience to the heart of Dawson's world, and the precise lighting by Jessica Drayton and sound by Andrew Harper create a fully immersive experience. Every detail works together to create an atmosphere that honors the depth of the story.
Donald Lee III is the music director for The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson at the North Carolina Opera (photo by Eric Waters)A Performance with Purpose
This production is a reminder of how art can serve as both expression and activism. Mary Cardwell Dawson's story is one of persistence and advocacy, and this performance makes clear that her mission still holds relevance today. Supporting works like this goes beyond the enjoyment of a night at the theater; it is an investment in the future of diverse storytelling and equitable opportunities in the arts.
The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson's run in the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater in the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh ends at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15th. Click here to purchase tickets online. This is a performance not to miss, offering a chance to be part of a legacy that continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
Carlos Simon and Sandra Seaton's THE PASSION OF MARY CARDWELL DAWSON (In Person at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15th), directed by Kimille Howard, with music direction by Donald Lee III, and starring Denyce Graves as Mary Cardwell Dawson, Johnnie Felder as Frank, Díana Thompson-Brewer as Isabelle, and Taylor-Alexis DuPont as Phoebe (North Carolina Opera in the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater in the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh). DIGITAL PROGRAM: https://issuu.com/ncopera/docs/mcd_web. TRAILER: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3439385646357899. 2024-25 SEASON: https://ncopera.org/2024-2025-season/. PRESENTER: https://www.ncopera.org/, https://www.facebook.com/NorthCarolinaOpera, https://www.instagram.com/northcarolinaopera/, https://x.com/NCOpera, and https://www.youtube.com/@northcarolinaopera3246. VENUE: https://www.martinmariettacenter.com/venues, https://www.facebook.com/MMCRaleigh, https://www.instagram.com/mmcraleighnc/, https://twitter.com/MMCRaleigh, and https://www.youtube.com/@MMCRaleighNC. DIRECTIONS/PARKING: https://www.martinmariettacenter.com/getting-martin-marietta-center. ACCESSIBILITY: https://www.martinmariettacenter.com/accessibility-martin-marietta-center. KNOW-BEFORE-YOU-GO INFORMATION: https://www.martinmariettacenter.com/know-before-you-go-information. ACCESSIBLE SEATING OPTIONS: Call the N.C. Opera Box Office at 919-792-3853 for accessible seating options. CARLOS SIMON (Washington, DC-born composer and Kennedy Center Composer-in-Residence): https://www.carlossimonmusic.com/, https://www.kennedy-center.org/our-story/kc50/artists/carlos-simon/, and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Simon_(composer). SANDRA SEATON (Columbia, TN-born playwright and lyricist): https://sandraseaton.com/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-seaton-920b914, https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/s/sa-sn/sandra-seaton/, and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandra_Seaton. RELATED SPECIAL EVENTS: Click here and scroll down to the SPECIAL EVENTS section. RUN TIME: Approximately 70 minutes with no intermission. TICKETS: $25 and up, plus taxes and fees. Click here to buy tickets. (NOTE: Tickets are $15 for college students with ID who call 919-792-3853 or click here. To pick up tickets, ID must be presented at Will Call.) GROUP RATES (10+ tickets): Call the N.C. Opera Box Office at 919-792-3853 for group ticket prices. INFORMATION: 919-792-3853 or info@ncopera.org. PLEASE DONATE TO: North Carolina Opera.
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EDITOR'S NOTE: Dani Daniela is a dynamic content creator, writer, facilitator, and podcast host whose work focuses on self-awareness, faith identity, and meaningful conversations. She blends everyday experiences with the arts to spark thoughtful dialogue and inspire personal breakthroughs. Her mission is to connect people through storytelling and creative expression, fostering community and deeper understanding. Dani is the host of EarthXperiences, a podcast in which she explores questions about faith journeys and mindset with other content creators and thought leaders, creating space for honest dialogue and fresh perspectives. She has co-written the web series Urk My Nerves and served as a contributing play reviewer for RDU on Stage. Dani is also the author of Ma, What's Investing?, a children's book promoting financial literacy, and Brown Girl All CULT Up, a personal exploration of her experiences with religion and self-discovery. Through her writing and workshops, Dani promotes self-awareness, mindfulness, and the use of thoughtful questions to help individuals explore their relationship with themselves and the ideas or people that shape their thinking. Her sessions encourage intentional decision-making and personal growth through reflective dialogue and critical inquiry. Her academic background in Family Science deeply informs her approach to both writing and facilitation. Dani has contributed to Carolina Playwrights Lab as a panelist, bringing her expertise to conversations around cultural identity, faith exploration, and the audience experience. As a proud mother of three, Dani draws inspiration from the lessons of parenthood, infusing her work with empathy and practical insight. Whether reviewing art, hosting panels, or leading workshops, Dani's goal is to inspire reflection and help people explore the intersections between creativity, faith, and everyday life. Through her mindful analysis as a reviewer, she uncovers new ways for us to connect, encouraging thoughtful engagement and deeper conversations that resonate long after the experience. Click here to read Dani Daniela's reviews for Triangle Review. |
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