by Adrianna Gardner
Staff Writer
Set in the time of the Great Depression, “Robert Johnson: Trick the Devil” showcases the circumstances and mystery behind a legendary musician’s untimely death.
The story takes place in the Mississippi Delta, and the quick-witted Southern tale is more of an introspective look at an individual’s life, exploring themes of good vs. evil, mythology and triumph.
With frequent reference to Shakespeare, the play reads like the fall of Julius Caesar meets the biblical story of Job.
“It’s about the things that take you down and the things that bring you up,” said Whitney Wickham, the play’s stage manager, “I love it. I think it’s beautiful.”
The Cabaret Theatre will host the popular folk legend about blues musician Robert Johnson’s late night deal with the devil.
He sells his soul for guitar-playing excellence and skill, a decision that, as legend has it, inevitably changed the pace of his career.
Most of the story unfolds in a local juke joint, a Southern watering hole where people hang out to drink and hear Delta blues.
Although the story focuses on Johnson, the play brings the audience into the compelling atmosphere of the club.
“If you really listen, everyone has their part.” said Nasir Najieb, a senior theater major playing the role of Johnson.
Najieb chose this play by Bill Harris as part of his senior thesis. Najieb’s part as Johnson is a demanding role, requiring him to put his personal quality of character into the part.
With the timing of the play coinciding with this month’s focus on African-American history and culture, the depiction of Johnson’s life and his influence on contemporary musicians is fitting.
Johnson’s innovative style and technique was revolutionary, inspiring such artists as Led Zeppelin, Elvis Presley and Eric Clapton.
Wickham said that the current running and frequency of plays from the theater department has created an interest in the department.
“He’s great,” said Elizabeth Pietrzak, theater manager and director, of this project. “He’s organized. He does his homework.”
Pietrzak said she was impressed with how well the piece was written and overall pleased with the play, in particular how intuitive the cast members are.
With complete confidence that the play had potential, Pietrzak agreed to pick up the play and aid Najieb in the necessary course of action.
Najieb said that a conscientious set design and use of the department resources allowed them were able to stay under budget.
From lighting to fixtures on the set, Najieb and Pietrzak said they worked tediously to make this project successful.
“I want to do the play justice,” Najieb said.
There is much to be said about Najieb’s talent.
Prior to this project, the senior won an award from the New York International Independent Film and video Festival, for a docudrama shot in his hometown of Portland, Ore.
Najieb had a part in the movie, “Men of Honor” with Cuba Gooding Jr. and won a Gracie Allen theater award in New York.
The only expectation Najieb has is for anyone attending “Devil” to bring an open ear.
Immersed in the complexities and dramatic tension of the play, Najieb’s hope is that the audience can identify with Johnson’s struggles and be influenced by his life, as are the blues and jazz musicians of today.
“Robert Johnson: Trick the Devil” can be seen at 7:30 p.m. tonight and tomorrow, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday in the Cabaret Theatre. General admission is $5 and $3 for ULV students. For more information, call (909) 593-3511 Ext.. 4386.
Adrianna Gardner
