Opening the same week as “Oklahoma”, Book-It Repertory Theatre brings us a different take on life in the high plains with a world premiere adaptation of Seattle author Ivan Doig’s novel “Prairie Nocturne.”
Set in 1920’s Montana and Harlem, “Prairie Nocturne” tells the story of wealthy rancher Wesley Williams (Shawn Belyea) who enlists ex-mistress and singing teacher Susan Duff (Myra Platt) to develop the exquisite but unschooled voice of his black chauffeur Monty Rathbun (Geoffery Simmons). The Ku Klux Klan soon uncovers the lessons conducted in secret, sending Monty on an escape route that lands him in Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. Thus begins a multi-faceted tale of regret, hope, a love triangle, racism, and the power of music.
Adapted by local writer Elena Hartwell and directed by Book-It company member Laura Ferri, “Prairie Nocturne” manages to condense the complex novel while retaining the beauty and clarity of Doig’s prose. And the production is a celebration of music, from Negro spirituals to Chopin to Scottish ballads to the blues, with a compact but effective ensemble of viola, trumpet, piano, mandolin and guitar.
Many of the performers display impressive versatility as both actors and musicians. Book-It co-artistic director Myra Platt not only portrays the part of courageous music teacher Susan; she is an accomplished pianist. Shawn Belyea plays a mean muted trumpet when he’s not onstage as conflicted Wes. And Geoffery Simmons as Monty and Faith Russell as Monty’s mother Angeline bring their impressive vocal talents to the production.
Other notable performances include Clark Sandford as the likeable Angus McCaskill, and Earl Alexander as Harlem entrepreneur JJ and Buffalo Soldier Mose Rathbun.
Andrea Bryn Bush’s scenic design combined with Jessica Trundy’s lighting upholds Book-It’s minimalist ethic where benches and chairs stand in for anything from cars to train benches to beds.
Like the musical piece called a nocturne, Book-It’s “Prairie Nocturne” captures the pensive mood of second chances and characters in their twilight years. I have never read this or any other works by Ivan Doig. But I intend to start.
Book-It Repertory Theatre’s “Prairie Nocturne” plays through March 4 at the Center House Theater.
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