Colman Domingo, the theatrical triple threat (actor on stage, film, and TV, playwright, and director) and someone from whom I’ve always been able to count on getting a hug since the day we met in 2007 during the Public Theater run of “Passing Strange,”is at it again.
His latest play, “Dot,” had its first performance Thursday night at Manhattan’s Vineyard Theatre a place that’s shown him a lot of love over the years.
The “Fear the Walking Dead” star’s heartwarming autobiographical “A Boy and His Soul” had a good run there in 2009, and he appeared there in the off-Broadway premiere of “The Scottsboro Boys” the following year before he went to Broadway with the show. (His second play, “Wild With Happy,” was presented at the Public Theater.)
His plays so far have been infused with family — filled with memorable, lovable, larger-than-life characters with roots in his upbringing in West Philadelphia.
“Dot” explores the dynamic among children who are dealing with the fast-developing dementia of an aging matriarch — played by Marjorie Johnson, who took the role after Leslie Uggams dropped out in favor of a recurring role on the Fox TV show “Empire.”
Colin Hanlon, Stephen Conrad Moore, Libya V. Pugh, Michael Rosen, Finnerty Steeves, and Sharon Washington round out the cast.
When “Dot” had its premiere last year at the Humana Festival in Louisville, InsiderLouisville.com described it as a “dark comedy” that represents “realism at its best.”
The only thing I think I’ll miss in this Susan Stroman-directed show will be Domingo’s magnetic personality onstage.
“Dot” is being stage at Vineyard Theatre through March 20. Go here to buy tickets, which cost $79. There’s really no bad seat in the house. (GO HERE to get a code to save $20.)
Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone? 