Plot? NOT! Who needs a plot when the performers are so talented?! Paper Mill’s revival of the 1920s Harlem-themed After Midnight includes 26 musical numbers presented as an extended set with the band right on stage with the ragingly talented triple-threats who give us the full flavor and energy of a night out in Harlem. Originally conceived by Jack Viertel and mining Langston Hughes’ work for inspiration, this show is a celebration of the Harlem Renaissance that began to bloom around 100 years ago and what a fitting celebration to begin Black History Month! Performers Angela Birchett, Sasha Hutchings, Joshua Lamar, James T. Lane, Stanley Martin, Harris Matthew, Aramie Payton, Destinee Rea, Awa Sal Secka, Liv Symone, Jasmine Pearl Villaroel and Anthony Wayne introduce us to some songs new to us as well as familiar favorites, with dazzling choreography by Dominque Kelley who co-directs this production with Paper Mill’s associate artistic director Jen Bender. Choosing a favorite is like asking a parent who is their favorite offspring – how is it even possible to choose? Is it Awa Sal Secka’s sage advice? Perhaps Angela Birchett’s “Stormy Weather”? Diga Diga Doo with Stanley Martin, Harris Matthew, Aramie Payton, Anthony Wayne and Sasha Hutchings? This is just to name a few, as all of the singing dancers (dancing singers) were brilliant, energetic and unstoppable!
Azalea Fairley’s costumes are period pitch perfect with special kudos for the elegance and sparkle of the women’s gowns and the men’s superbly colorful suits. Alfreda Howard’s Wigs, Hair and Makeup Designs and Adam Honore’s Set and Lighting Design perfectly set the mood as we travel back in time for a most exciting night at the Cotton Club.
This is not sit-in-your-seat entertainment. I found my foot tapping through the entire show, clapping and snapping along with the performers and more energized and buzzing leaving the theater than when I arrived. Get your tickets and get your Sunday Best ready. The time is now.
After Midnight ends it’s run on February 25 and tickets are selling FAST! Visit papermill.org to get yours now for a most memorable Valentine’s Day gift.