Ruby Dee Comes To Alliance Theatre | DryerBuzz.com ArcHives 2003

Rebuzzed from the BuzzArcHives – February  2003 (approximately)

Moments of her life are Black History in the making.  With every role she has brought our story to life from Broadway to big screen and now to the stage at Alliance Theatre.  Ruby Dee continues our story while starring as “Grandma” in Bridgette Wimberly’s “Saint Lucy’s Eyes, now playing until March 9th at Alliance Theatre.

She takes the stage with Roger Robinson, veteran stage and TV actor, Karan Kendrick, a Georgia native and Spelman graduate, and Toks Olagundoye who recently starred in Brown Sugar.

The play moves through thirteen trying years of Grandma’s life, accounting key events from 1968 to 1981 that progresses her forward, closer to her dreams, then brings her back to reality of which she has detached all practicality.

Grandma knows what’s she wants when it comes to her man and her money, and tells it like it is even when the only one she might be convincing — is herself.  She has an alternate reality for most things, including the business she operates on the side– providing illegal abortions to women in need.  While she has convinced herself she’s helping women, her husband whom she affectionately calls Bey, objects while questioning her need for him over her want for money.

Ultimately her encounters, events of the civil rights movements brings about devastating changes that ultimately revises the outcome of which she has forever dreamed.

You will not want to miss an opportunity to see Dee’s work up close and personal.  If you have enjoyed any of her numerous appearances in films like Do the Right Thing, Jungle Fever, and others, you will love her as “Grandma” in St. Lucy’s Eyes.  At 78, she still captures her audience with the same comic edge and no-fault deliverance.  Her beauty and grace is everlasting.

Married for a celebratory fifty years to her life long love, Ossie Davis, the two have publish a joint autobiography, With Ossie & Ruby: In This Life Together. Dee also held a Valentine’s Day book signing for her book, My One Good Nerve, a compilation of short stories and poetry. Both can be seen on the upcoming airing of the “Trumpet Awards”, Saturday, February 22nd on TBS Superstation, where they received the Pinnacle Trumpet Award.

The Alliance Theatre Company presents a series of fun and free audience-enrichment events to accompany our stellar 2002-2003 season. Each production features a Lunchtime with Susan event, and several Before Play and After Words discussions — all designed to enhance the theatre-going experience by offering a behind-the-scenes look at the production. Sponsored by Turner Broadcasting System Inc.