January 27, 2010
Last Chance: The Threshing Floor @ the Adrienne Theatre

Mauckingbird Theater Company's poster for TRU & the Threshing Floor
The Threshing Floor, directed by Brandon McShaffrey, skillfully examines and unfolds the complicated life of Baldwin, author of a number of formative works including Giovanni’s Room and Go Tell It on the Mountain, in a moving one-act, one-man play written by and starring James Ijames.
In the play, Ijames portrays Baldwin’s mentors, family members and lovers, as well as other luminaries in Baldwin’s time, including Josephine Baker, Eldridge Cleaver and Richard Wright. The play takes the shape of a fictional interview between a graduate student and Baldwin and traces the author’s journey from 1920’s Harlem where he grew up under the thumb of strict, religious parents to his move to Paris as a 24-year old, with only $40 in his pocket. In its final moments, it recounts Baldwin’s subsequent return to America and his passionate involvement in the civil rights movement.
The Threshing Floor vividly recounts the racism and homophobia that Baldwin, an openly gay black man, was subject to during the early 50s and 60s and yet manages to bring levity in its approach of such serious topics. A surprise addition to the performance was Ijames’ pleasant singing voice, which he used to accentuate the tone of poignant scenes. Whether it is a belated-celebration of MLK Day or in preparation of Black History Month, a performance of The Threshing Floor affords an important exploration of a quintessential American figure.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and $15 for students. The show closes this Sunday, so do catch it while you still can. For play dates and times, visit the Mauckingbird Theatre’s website.
The Threshing Floor
Now through January 31st, 2010
Adrienne Theatre
2030 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103











