Music Pulse: 'Dinah Was' Proves Outstanding
Los Angeles Sentinel
"Dinah Was," a new play by Oliver Goldstick featuring the music of legendary blues singer Dinah Washington, is currently having its West Coast premiere at the Coast Playhouse in Santa Monica.
The musical opened to a capacity audience on June 22 for a six-week engagement; however, due to overwhelming popular demand, it has been extended through Aug. 25.
"Dinah Was" features a cast of six thespians-musicians, with Yvette Freeman (of the television cast of ER) in the role of Dinah. Ella English, Marva Hicks, Bud Leslie, Victor Love and Peter Van Norden complete the cash. Bob Davin Jones is the director. It is presented by Douglas Sills and Blind Pig Productions. Tina McKinley Tredwill is the co-producer, with Lanny Hartley serving as musical director.
"Dinah Was" includes thirteen Dinah Washington songs performed by Ms. Freeman and other members of the cast.
In 1963, just weeks after the assassination of John Kennedy, Dinah Washington's brilliant and trailblazing singing career was terminated by her sudden death at age 39. Hailed by critics and fans alike as the "Queen of the Blues," the late Ms. Washington was a powerful, confident artist who could sing in any style and she did so, having recorded hundreds of gospel, rhythm and blues, jazz and pop songs, coupled with her tours of the world.
The setting for "Dinah" is Las Vegas in 1959 at a time when Dinah Washington was at the pinnacle of her enormous success, with the recording of "What a Difference a Day Makes," having had a wide acceptance. She crossed another racial barrier when she was booked as the main attraction at the Sahara Hotel.
This fast-paced musical evolves around some of the experiences encountered by the chanteuse and subsequent events surrounding some of the episodes in her life.
Yvette Freeman recreates the role of Dinah in a brilliant manner, and captivates her audience with her rare vocal talent.
The late Ms. Washington had a figure to match her oversized personality, and Freeman is equally as full-figured and possessed of a dynamic personality. She is capable of bellowing forth one song after another, with enthusiasm and brilliant gusto.
Victor Love, a tall, handsome baritone, is the principal male lead, and he gave fine support throughout. When he and Freeman merged their voices for several duets, the audience was mesmerized. Their voices are well blended, and the result is worthy of accolades.
Ella English and Marva Hicks are very talented young women and they displayed a fine understanding of their music.
There are many dances which are performed by cast members, and they were executed with finesse.
The play continues to attract large crowds and Sentinel readers are encouraged to see, hear and enjoy this outstanding theatrical blues masterpiece. For ticket information and additional details, telephone (213) 660-8587.
-Frank Milton McCoy, Los Angeles Sentinel
August 16, 1996
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