Singer-dancer David Williams took the audience into the mysteries of Harlem, 1929, with a sensual and hilarious version of the reefer classic, "When You'se a Viper," last night at LSUS Theater. It wasn't a politically comfortable passage, but the dream of "a reefer about 5 feet long, not too fat and not too strong," is true to America and, presumably, to the New York life of super songwriter Fats Waller. "When You'se a Viper" is part of a 2-hour revue of tunes written in the heat of the Harlem Renaissance by Waller. The show, cunningly called "Ain't Misbehavin," was directed by Robert Darrow and produced by Gene Bozeman for Shreveport Little Theater.
In addition to the tall and graceful Williams the small stage at LSUS was energized by the not-so-tall but entirely charming Carnetta Cooper. Aside from Cooper, this is a cast making its debut in community theater. Each singer has considerable background in church presentations, and it shows in their timing and tunefulness. Mairus McFarland is an adept singer, competent dancer and expert mugger. Barbara Holmes has a rich voice and a smile of platinum. Whitney Jones added long legs and an energetic presence to the boards.
There's a 7-piece band, too. With Grambling student Tramaul Love at the keyboard, the band backed the singers smoothly.
The sexual innuendo and many of the Harlem colloquialisms written by Waller are well dished. But the enunciation of the cast and the performance of the mics and sound team of SLT are works in progress. The art of articulation in lyrics is one developed under the pressure of repeated performance and critical review. There's a balance to be sought in making sure the audience gets the words while the performer has fun with the role. Under the limited lighting of the LSUS theater this cast was struggling to bring clarity to the lyrics.
The band also has a challenge over the coming nights. Such a seasoned set of players might whip up a Harlem storm. On opening night the music was faultless but artless.
The delights of community theater are well realized by the beaming McFarland - his joy of being onstage is palpable - and the shimmering Williams. During an evening of basic hoofing Williams offers a brilliant moment of dance that focuses on his vibrating fingers and torso. Holmes and Cooper are endearing. An evening of Fats Waller tunes is a capital idea.
SLT's "Aint Misbehavin" plays the coming 2 nights: Fri and Sat, July 13 and 14, at 8 pm.
Tickets are $20 and can be insured by calling 424-4439 between noon and 4 pm, M - F. Performances at LSUS Theater are open seating. Unlike the Margaret Place home of SLT, a site being remodeled over the next year, seats at the university theater are spacious and abundant.
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