FrancoApr 29th, 2007 - 03:58:59

An all-black production of Williams' 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' is an intriguing prospect. However, Tennessee Williams' characters require actors of the highest caliber, who can summon the most tormented emotions, and are capable of exploring the most profound depths of the human soul. Mr. 'Cool J' has none of these qualities or abilities. His work as an actor is positively wooden in terms of craft and ultimately insipid in terms of content. Debbie Allen may direct dance routines for the Oscars splendidly, but tackling Williams' 'CAT'? This is pure madness! How about showing some respect for Tennessee Williams and resisting the need to sell tickets by sticking 'pop' figures in parts well beyond their ken and talent. This is exactly what is destroying American theatre.

I, for one, hope this producer seriously reconsiders the direction this is going in. Denzel Washington as Brick, or Taye Diggs or Terrence Howard... certainly there are actors with serious chops who could handle this part and do it justice. How about Danny Glover as Big Daddy? As for Maggie... God help them! How insulting to the non hip-hop African American community... and the legions of talented black actors and actresses. I do wish this producer would consult with some of the well-known Williams scholars, many of whom would gladly consult on this production and preserve its integrity. I am officially offering my help to the producers, gratis!

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