On Strivers Row

See it if Rarely seen 1940's satire on upwardly mobile African Americans in Harlem. Abram Hill's drama is still suprisingly relevant, funny & topical

Don't see it if A little too long & creaky at times with one subplot too many but vibrate cast & Johnson's expert direction keeps momentum going throughout

See it if you want to see a story about well to do African Americans in 1940's Harlem. Very witty dialogue and beautiful costumes. Good set.

Don't see it if you can't climb stairs. The Metropolitan Playhouse has no elevator.This is a very small theater on 2nd floor. Unisex bathroom.

See it if You appreciate a 77 year old theatre piece.

Don't see it if You don't appreciate 77 year old theatre piece

See it if You want to see a show that teaches you much about Black upper middle class lives in the 1930"s.

Don't see it if You don't want to see a show portraying infrequently presented characters

See it if U enjoy parlor comedy uniquely African American style but story very resonant to all as long as there is social climbing sickness in society

Don't see it if U want serious drama & grand stage sets. U don't appreciate off off Bway but U will be amazed to see Metropolitan Playhouse quality if U go.

Also Another excavated rare gem in American plays consistently well produced by the illustrious Metropolitan Playhouse under the stewardship of Alex Roe. This one highlights the work of witty African American playwright Abram Hill. The creative team excelled in direction, dance & fight choreography, set, costume, light & sound designs all cleverly adapted to a cozy theater setting making the audience feel as if they are in the posh parlor of the snobbish but chaotic Van Striven Harlem household.

This hilarious satire about blind social climbing at all cost & at all sacrifice (of friendship, decency, & common sense) drives home the stupidity of trying to be somebody you are not or maybe don't really want to be. The most snobbish & prudish may just be the most inferior & indecent with shame to hide underneath all that bloated air & the poorest & most common may be the richest in heart & truly upstanding! All actors wonderful especially Hannah/Jive Turkey & Powell/Grandma as direct opposites!... Read more Read less

See it if you appreciate a well-written gem of a play that is funny and relevant, with richly detailed characters wonderfully acted.

Don't see it if you do not want to laugh.

Also I look forward to reading this Abram Hill play to more fully appreciate it.... Read more Read less