National Black Theatre
presents

DEAD AND BREATHING

Written by Chisa Hutchinson
Directed by Jonathan McCrory
Set Design: Maruti Evans
Costume Design: Karen Perry
Lighting Design: Alan C. Edwards
Sound Design: Justin Hicks
Stage Manager: Halle Morse

Featuring: Lizan Mitchell and NIkkie E. Walker

Press Representative: Ron Lasko, Spin Cycle

National Black Theatre
2031-33 National Black Theatre Way at the corner of 125th Street and Fifth Avenue
Through November 23, 2015, M-S at 7:30pm, except 10/17 and 10/24 at 5 and 9pm
https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/cal/34282; 866-811-4111


DEAD AND BREATHING opens with Veronika, a very outspoken caregiver, as she readies her wealthy, cantankerous patient, Carolyn, for her bath. As she is eased into the sudsy water, Carolyn’s backside is laid bare, as is her wish to die. After two years in hospice care and supposedly dying of cancer, Carolyn is bored with living. Veronika, her 17th caregiver, gives Carolyn a run for her money. All of Carolyn’s beliefs are revealed under Veronika’s care, as she negates all that is good: love, religion and such.

The remainder of the show is full of delicious, funny, caustic and racy banter between the two women. Carolyn names Veronika as the heir of her considerable fortune, but only if she helps her commit suicide. Veronika desperately needs the money but her Christian morals are being tested and she resists.

The story takes a turn when Carolyn learns Veronika is a transexual, and is repulsed by the thought of “death by Tranny”. But Veronica defends herself passionately. Eventually, Carolyn comes to terms with Veronica’s transformation, while Veronika, after much rationalization, comes to terms with assisting Carolyn’s death. Though somewhat unbelievable, the struggle is resolved by an unexpected or divine intervention.

Carolyn has it all, but is miserable. Veronika is poor, but happy. In their brief interaction, they become intertwined and grow together. Paradoxically, there’s something about approaching death that brings out the life in people.

Lizan Mitchell is a delight to watch. She infuses wit, intelligence and passion like few other actors. Nikkie Walker’s love and sharp-witted deliveries are good counterpoints.

As the show ends, the director and the new CEO of NBT engage the audience in a talk back.

Gloria Talamas