Black Theatre Troupe Opens Season With ‘Caroline, of Change’

Black Theatre Troupe opens its 2017/18 season with a production of the Tony-nominated musical, “Caroline, or Change.”

Written by Tony Kushner with music by Jeanine Tesori, “Caroline, or Change” is set during the height of the 1960s Civil Rights era and features an ultra-melodic score, combining doo-wop, Motown, R&B and ‘60s girl bands, all backed by a 15-piece live orchestra.

Highlights include “The Laundry Quintet,” and “Salty Teardrops” reminiscent of Martha and The Vandellas and Caroline’s powerful ballad “Lot’s Wife.”

Performances of “Caroline, or Change” are September 15 – October 1, at the Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St.

The time is 1963 in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Caroline Thibodeaux, an African-American mother of three works for a Southern Jewish family. She and their eight-year old son Noah, find themselves in the middle of a family conflict during the Christmas and Chanukah holidays.

Jennifer Robinson is featured in the role of Caroline Thibodeaux with Noah McNeal taking on the role of 8 year old Noah Gellman.  “Caroline, or Change” is directed by David Hemphill, with musical direction by Brenda Hankins and choreography by Laurie Trygg.

Info: www.blacktheatretroupe.org.