Cotton Alley

Writen by Olivia Gowan
Directed by Olivia Gowan and Cathy Holbrook
Performed at Actors Workout Studio; July 18th - Oct 3rd

Review

Review from Tolucan Times and Canyon Crier : July 26th, 2008
By Mary Mallory

An entertaining, spiritual production from First Light Players, “Cotton Alley” reveals the hidden hurts in a young woman’s life and her desire for love and redemption.

Avery (Trista Robinson) must deal with the death of her grandmother and possible need to sell the family home to unscrupulous developer Early (Richard Rossi). Will the reappearance of her long lost mother (Cy Hutcherson), growing attraction to sexy drifter Griff (Eric Feliciano), and complex relationship with caretaker Hattie Lou (Mattie Singleton) derail her confidence and self-esteem, or force her to seek answers from a higher power?
Director/writer Olivia Gowan creates intense moments that help build ferocity and passion into the performances. Hutcherson gives a riveting, emotional performance as a woman looking to redeem herself after a series of bad choices. Robinson brings tender vulnerability to innocent Avery. Feliciano’s Griff possesses a sexy swagger and devilish attitude. Singleton makes Hattie a tough but loving soul.
Production work enhances the somewhat dreamlike nature of the piece. Unfortunately, the layout of the stage sometimes slows down scene changes and disrupts the flow. Excerpts of African-American spirituals evoke pain, suffering, and intense devotion.
A little long and occasionally melodramatic, “Cotton Alley” presents a moving spiritual message through fine acting and forceful subject matter, making it more realistic and applicable to contemporary audiences.

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