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Here you will find a collection of reviews of past events in and around Pittsburgh. These reviews are by Soul Pitt staff or Soul Pitt visitors like yourself. If you have attended anything in the Burgh and want to let people know about it, whether it was good or bad, please send your review to soulreviews@thesoulpitt.com
 Pitt's Kuntu Repertory Theatre Presents Sing Black Hammer- July 13-23
Performance Review by D.L. Norris
"Wait a minute- who said for you to turn away from my station", I stated to my son, Philemon. But this time, how delighted I was that my seventeen year old did just that- he hit the scan button in the middle of something I was listening to-this was done in an attempt to catch his latest Hip hop tune.
Dropping the kids off at their perspective summer camps had turned into me catching the end of an unexpected interview regarding a newly announced performance. All I heard was "Diana Ross..., Singing and Kuntu performance-these three subject matters sparked an interest to hear more. But, the interview was over! Was Kuntu doing Dreamgirls?- I thought.
Could not wait to get back to my office for the day. An email was immediately sent to Dr. Lillie, founder & Executive Director and Eileen Morris, Managing Director. Eileen then was also contacted via phone. My inquiring mind wanted to know- what was this new Kuntu production all about?
For later that evening with gratitude and thankfulness, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend the preview of a newly announced Kuntu Repertory theatre performance, Sing Black Hammer - HOW ENTERTAINING! No it was not Dreamgirls. However, it was about the nostalgic Motown 60's music, the passion of the amusing characters portrayed by the talented actors and their various dreams expressed throughout. These dreams reveal captivating scenes of emotions of fear, regrets, anticipation, hopes, desires, needs, pain, happiness and successes!
Kuntu Repertory Theatre's Sing Black Hammer explores a moment in the 60's when a hard hitting black construction worker from Pittsburgh collides with a struggling singer in Detroit. Their explosion echoes around the world and we discover what it takes to make a black hammer sing. Sing Black Hammer is a "Go see" In fact, I would see it again...CP
Please provide us your comments & thoughts to Reviews@thesoulpitt.com
 2006 TONY & AACTA AWARDS REVIEW
BY D.L. NORRIS (June 26, 2006)
A dream had come true- we were at the 2006 Tony Awards!! At this time, I honestly cannot decipher if it was actually a surprise graduation present for our daughter, Vergia Siovhan, or something that I've wanted to do for years. But who cared, we amazingly were there-the Tony Awards! The excitement had built from the moment the thought to go crossed my mind. From the moment we got out of the NYC yellow cab in front of the Radio City Music Hall the energy in the air was awesome and grew by the moment!. It was wonderful-everyone we met was full of Musical stories and star sightings. Whether it was standing in line in front of the theatre to the women seating next to me were bubbling with excitement- WE WERE AT THE TONY AWARDS!! Not to mention, The Color Purple was up for 11 Tony Awards that night- ultimately, they only won one of these for best leading actress in a musical- LaChanze was excellent and this was one of the highlights of the evening!! But it did not surprise me that once I got over the excitement of being there, settled comfortably in my seat and had studied every inch of the well designed and spectacular stage, something was missing? Click here to continue article>>>
 Madea Goes to Jail Review
Soulful Review by Paulie for The Soul Pitt
April 19, 2006
Tyler Perry gave another one of his stellar performances as the play Madea goes to jail was an absolute hit. The messages he conveys in his plays are always in the key of life and this was no exception. As a matter of fact, this one was really moving. It was all about “RELATIONSHIPS”. Relationships between a man and a woman, friends and family, bosses and employees, co-workers and neighbors. One segment of the play consisted of they actors singing some serious old school jams. Tyler Perry actually sang a song in this play. His rendition of You got me going in circles by Friends of Distinction was simply fantastic, the brother can sing. During his closing monologue he promised Pittsburgh that we are now officially on his tour list and he will be back.
Now the bad news. Yes Peterson Hall is brand new still and absolutely lovely and yet there were plenty of seats left empty. Too many empty seats to even take an educated guess. This could have been for a number of reasons but in my opinion here’s what I think. Same price for all seating. No tier pricing. The same price ticket got you on the floor as it got you any where in the stadium. Why this play was not held in the Benedum or Heinz Hall, I’ll never know but I can guess the turn out would’ve been a lot greater. Another reason I think there was an extremely small turn out, Tuesday and Wednesday shows. I for one am still kind of sleepy as I had to come into work early this morning as I’m sure a lot of people had to. Advertising, when and where was it done? I don’t listen to the Radio much so I don’t know if they advertised it, but there were no commercials, and actually when I first heard about it through word of mouth, Pittsburgh wasn’t even listed as a stop in the tour on Tyler Perry’s website.
Paulie
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RESPONSES TO MADEA REVIEW:
Response #1:
The real reason why there were so many empty seats was because of the price! We aren't her family! Were we supposed to be paying the 10% to get her out of jail?
Did Mr. Perry forget that he was once a homeless man with no money? Most of us in Pittsburgh are hard working lower class to lower middle class people. We have jobs (I have 2, FT!) and kids and bills that must come first, before a $50+ ticket to see a play. And you know how we are... we gotta get our hair, nails (and for some of us even the toe nails) did! Then we have to buy a new outfit, shoes, a matching purse and don't forget accessories! And with gas at these prices!!! Pay for the ticket, drive around to all the stores/malls to make your ensemble perfect and wait all day in the Korean nail salon inhaling those fumes. And for that price there wasn't any appetizers, bottom shelf liquor or even peanuts left over from American West Airlines (they were bought out by US Airways in case you didn't know) or nothing! Can I say the "N" word? Okay, then we will keep it PG13 and I will say... "Child please!" He (Tyler Perry), She (Madea) the two of them must be crazy! I've seen her smoking that stuff in other plays maybe it was filled with cannibus (keeping it PG13) and it was real. Then we could blame the price of the ticket on his drug habit.
Plus, what grown adult in their right mind has the time to be sitting by their radio, writing down the name of songs and the so-called-artists that created that mess, with 412-333-WAMO or #WAMO (from your Cricket phone) on speed dial trying to win some tickets! You must first be subjected to the booty clapping, God awful music that they play and since no other Black radio stations exist (hint, hint) that we might listen to and try to win some tickets from, we must come to the conclusion that we wouldn't be able to attend.
I don't fault Tyler Perry because if you can ask for it and some people will give it to you, then by all means be my guest at getting "paid". I am sure that the performance was outstanding, I saw Class Reunion live so I know what kind of show he puts on. But due to the fact that the ticket prices were sky high and I couldn't even afford to send by Mom and Grandma we all missed it. Maybe he will take into consideration who his audience and following is and next time make the prices more affordable to the general public.
Long time fan but responsible 2 full-time job having, bill paying adult!
KCaDea of Wilkinsburg, PA
Response #2:
Madea Goes to Jail was fantastic! I laughed for two hours and was amazed at the talent of Tyler Perry. I believe there were empty seats because of lack of advertising. I only saw the commercial ONCE on TV and never heard it on the radio. If information was sent to Black churches, we did not receive it.
Also, the Peterson Center is nice, but it is made for basketball and young people. Those steps to the parking lot are killers for those of us over 50! Another location would be better.
Lorraine, Pittsburgh
Response #3:
I would like to comment about the Madea Goes to Jail and also the comments that were previously posted. At first I too was disturbed with the outrageous pricing, but then I had to think about it from a business prespective. Yes, Tyler Perry used to be homeless and knows how it is, but the larger he gets less control he is going to have over things like ticket prices. Before he could keep the prices lower because he was doing everything on his own. Now that he is getting larger even the we, the audience want to see the plays step up a notch and I feel he has done that with everything from the stage setting to the band. He has to pay all those people and believe me they want to be paid according to who he is now not who he was when he was homeless. The bottom line is he has no control over the final price of the tickets a lot of it has to do with the venue price and a lot of other factors. No It wasn't sold out, not because of being over priced because there were plenty of people there, but it's much bigger than the Benedum Center and some seats couldn't be sold, because of where they were in relation to the stage. I like to get my hair and new outfit too, but I decided to buy the ticket, support Tyler and wear something I haven't worn in awhile and did my own hair...It's ok to do that sometime.
Also the Petersen Center wasn't the best place for a play, but we all know we wanted Tyler/Madea to come to Pittsburgh, so that was the place that was both available and could accomodate his elaborate stage set. I do know for a fact they were making accomodation for the elderly and disabled I saw them being escorted out of side doors so they wouldn't have to walk the steps.
We shouldn't complain so much or we will be right back to where we were when we used to say "No one ever comes to Pittsburgh"!
Inside Man Starring Denzel
Soulful Review by D.L. Norris
Denzel, Denzel Denzel! And, Spike, Spike & Spike. Suspenseful, dramatic & amusing, would be my first adjectives. However in all fairness to families, a little violent due to the subject matter! But, Inside Man by far was a true “Denzel “flick. Denzel’s handsome, strong, powerful, take control, articulate and suave persona was definitely evident in this new Spike Lee directed movie. Although, I have been a little concern lately about one of my all time favorite male actors alleged personal trials. Next to Sidney Portier, Denzel still showed his “it “factor! However, I did notice an unusual strain in his face and eyes, which could be a direct correlation to signs of aging- don’t believe it was the make-up? Regardless in Inside Man, Denzel still has all of “it”! Let’s face it ladies, the man has not lost “it”. Inside Man was more of my husband’s taste of movie with all the violence and high tech toys. But, Denzel was still Denzel! Spike Lee has done a wonderful job showing his directing expertise. Many of Spike’s signatures directing elements were present. However more than most of Spike’s projects, this movie exhibited a more mainstream appeal, as oppose to your “in your face” style. There has definitely been some elevation with his directing skills. Again, although a little too violent for my taste, movie goers will enjoy the suspense ride and strategic mindset of it! …And of course, anything with Denzel is a Keeper!
Pink Panther by DL Norris
Why did I even want to see this movie? Was it the need for a guaranteed good laugh from Steve Martin? Or, was it the anticipation of seeing what the hottest Paris fashion statement might be from the always sharp Beyonce-both! The Pink Panther movie was so Corny and full of predictable slap stick comedy that it was actually funny! My husband laughed, my sixteen year old teenager laughed, my twelve year laughed and I laughed! This Pink Panther storyline was updated, i.e references to cell phone payment plans etc. the movie is very different from the original versions of the Pink Panther. There was nothing very dramatic to note about this movie. But just the same, the movie was definitely amusing and entertaining! The hamburger/speech teacher scene was a tickler. Some of the scenes were so funny that the adult humor probably will go right over most of your heads due to laughing so hard. The silliness of the movie was sick in some cases, so be prepared. It was great seeing Steve again. He often is so funny even just to look at-this movie was no different. Likewise, Beyonce Knowles is as beautiful as always. With her alluring eyes and golden brown complexion, she actually gave her few scenes a fair effort. For those who love "B "'s voice, don't become disappointed, Beyonce only has a short singing scene. If nothing more than to treat yourself to a great laugh, go see it!
King Kong - Entertaining or Offensive?
Were the the King Kong Skull Island "Natives" designed to depict images that so perpetuate negative stereotypes of fear and ignorance about people of color, in the past and presently? Or, am I being too sensitive as a professional communicator regarding negative images portrayed in the media? Click here to read the full review by D.L. Norris>>>
Also, we would like to hear your thoughts about this Movie...Please provide us your comments & thoughts to Reviews@thesoulpitt.com
 Dr. Maya Angelou - Event Review
By D.L. Norris
All day I watched the clock. Maya Angelou was in town! And at 8:30 PM, I had tickets to see and hear one of the most highly acclaimed poets/authors/spokeswomen in this century. Tick, tock, tick, tock… with all the work load on my desk, I pushed through! There was only one thing I wanted to think about - Dr, Angelou! For years I admired her & her wisdom. For years I read & studied her works. And for years, I have always loved her down home realness! Once again, I would see her! Dr. Angelou did not disappoint! The lights dimmed. With great anticipation, I heard nothing else about the introduction, but her name. Suddenly, Dr. Angelou appeared, dressed in a classic long after five dress. The dress had long sleeves, a rhinestone pin placed just so near the front lapel and she wore matching rhinestone earrings- were those ones Oprah gave her as a legend? - I thought! Click here to continue>>>
Billie & Me - A Soulful Review by D. L. NorrisFabulous! That's all I can say about the performance of Billie & Me, featuring Rita Coolidge, Niki Haris, Joan Osborne, Dianne Reeves and Rokia Traore'. Kudos to The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and all of their fine sponsors for this most educational & equally entertaining evening! The entire evening depicted the life of the fabulously talented, glamorous and talented Billie Holiday. As an art enthusiast, I learned things about Ms. Holiday that I never knew- I am sure I was not alone! The Byham Theater was packed with a wonderfully diverse and distinguished crowd- a real who's who in the area! A product of the "Lady Sings the Blues" movie era, with Billie Dee Williams & Diana Ross( saw it five times!), I initially expected most of the arrangements to sound more on the order of Diana Ross's rendition- they delightfully were not!! After my initial shook because of this, I became wonderfully intrigued with the talent and the new arrangements. My favorite artist for the night was Rokia Traore', who had an African flavor to all of her renditions. Traore' also was obviously & pleasingly a seasoned dancer too. As Traore' moved freely and grooved in to the bands accompaniment, she did so in a manner that surely another dancer would totally appreciate, let alone others! However Dianne Reeves brought everyone to their feet with her rendition of "God Bless the Child". However, additional Kudos goes to the artist who performed "Strange Fruit". "Nobody's Bizness", one of my favorites by Ms. Ross, was also interesting! However the rendition of "Travelin' had to be one of my and the crowds most moving! This selection had a Gospel flavor that started slow and built to a moving spirit filled , hand clapping and! " Amen" venting appreciation from some of the crowd and me too! With a culturally mixed crowd in attendance, some folks weren't quite sure of what had happened- the spirit was present and the anointing surely took place with this number! The component that I appreciated most was the multi-media factor in sharing the legacy, talent and life of Billie Holiday! There was the wonderful band, the talented and and diverse vocalist, historical biographical narration and the slide show projection- superb! Although I had to leave before the finale, the Billie & Me performance reminded me of my San Francisco Bay Area Day's. During these days, I first was exposed to some of the finest cultural performances ever! To the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, this one is a "Keeper" for the Soul Pitt Sensational Soulful Entertainment list..."You do know what love is" - please keep this type of thing coming...Thank you! ... D. L. Norris
Rent - A Soulful Review by D. L. Norris
After Dr. Vernell Lillie, founder a & Executive Director of Kuntu Repertory Theatre, gave her thumbs up, I knew I was on track! The movie preview screening last night of Rent was surprisingly and extremely entertaining! Rent, the movie, was full of strong voices, dancers and actors! In many cases. " Rent" the movie was actually much more plot understanding, deeper with character development and certainly full of more "pizazz" then ever experienced in the live stage Broadway performance viewed several year ago. In fact, from the sound of the applause at the end of the viewing last night, I trust that I am not alone in my opinion! When the accomplished Dr,. Lillie gave her comparison of stage verses movie to me last night, I received confirmation that this flick is definitely worth going to see! Initially concerned that the movie would be a drab portrayal of seemingly "Gay" lifestyles in a! New York City apartment, with great dancing & singing- I was wrong! The movie version had great singing & dancing, but also the much surprised and appreciated character development. This movie made you feel as if you knew, or wanted to know each character! In fact, I have acquired new found admiration and respect for Mr. Taye Diggs (Stella Got her Grove back) & his real life wife- what a triple threat dream team! Mrs. Diggs ( Idina Menzel), a former Broadway star of the musical "Wicked", has potential to become Hollywood's next Julia Roberts or greater! Well, time will tell, but again this "Rent" flick is definitely a "keeper" on the Soulful list of Entertainment Sensations!
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