If you want to hold my attention and teach me something important, tell me a story. Great educators, preachers and politicians understand this. Our best Bryan Series speakers do, too.
Anna Deavere Smith (who visits Sunday, Feb. 28) is not only a wonderful storyteller but a master impressionist. She used her talents to channel 20 characters in "Let Me Down Easy," which is ending an extended run at Second Stage Theatre off Broadway. I saw the next-to-last show on Saturday night.
Through Anna's stagecraft, the late Gov. Ann Richards, Lance Armstrong, Rev. Peter Gomes and lesser-known figures talked about how they confront(ed) mortality. They expressed joy and sadness, confidence and despair, evoking lots of audience laughter and some tears.
The timely topic of healthcare system dysfunction and resulting challenges for many people was a thread running through the production. However, we were reminded that death is part of life and, regardless of our social standing, it is the great equalizer.
One of many poignant moments was Anna's portrayal of her aunt, Lorraine Coleman, who wished for her mother's comforting love at the time of her older sister's death. As children, she and her seven siblings had no gloves for cold days, and when they returned home their mother would hug them and warm their hands in her armpits.
In response to cheers calling her back to the stage after the show, Anna hugged herself and placed her hands in her armpits--a loving, warm gesture on a very cold night.
--Ty Buckner
