Dessa Rose


Chromolume Theatre
Feb. 2 - Feb. 25, 2018
Music by
Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics and Book by
Lynn Ahrens

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dessa Rose premiered at Lincoln Center in 2005 and tells the story of a runaway slave and the deserted wife of a plantation owner who form a grudging alliance in their struggle to find their individual freedoms. The musical is based on the book by Sherley Anne Williams and will play during Black History Month, opening February 2, 2018 and playing through February 25, 2018.

 

CAST/CREW BIOS

 

Reviews

Neal Weaver of Stage Raw raves "RECOMMENDED!"

Leo Buck of Bucking Trends raves "A genuine gold-medal worthy 'find' of a musical that shouldn't be missed by anyone eager to experience a daring and dynamic piece of theater."

Shari Barrett of BroadwayWorld raves "Chromolume's production is one of the best shows/musicals I have ever seen, hands down."

MORE REVIEWS

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AUDITIONS

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FAQ

Where are you located?
We currently are a company without a home. You can reach us at P.O. Box 61964, Los Angeles, CA 90064.

What time should I arrive at the theatre?
Generally speaking, it is best to arrive at the theatre roughly 15-30 minutes before your performance.

Does the theatre have wheelchair access?
Yes.

Can my child/baby attend the theatre?/Is the show appropriate for children?
It is Chromolume Theatre's policy that no babies in arms may be allowed to attend. Further, we do not permit children under the age of four (4) to attend. This is to ensure that all customers enjoy the show. Young children are admitted but are not encouraged to attend unless the parent is confident the child will not distract other members of the audience. Everyone must have a valid ticket and occupy a seat. Accompanying adults will be asked to remove any noisy children. Generally, Chromolume Theatre produced productions are appropriate for school age children, while visiting productions can vary in appropriateness. Regardless, you should probably check with the Box Office when you order your tickets whether the production you are attending is appropriate for your child.

Are your actors professional?
In most cases, yes. Most, if not all, of the actors who perform in our shows are members of Actors Equity Association, Screen Actors Guild and/or American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

Do your musicals have live musicians or taped accompaniment?
All of Chromolume Theatre's produced musicals include a single piano, or a small orchestra, usually five pieces. We do not use taped accompaniment at any of our performances. Any visiting production may use taped accompaniment.

Whom do I contact to usher for one of your performances?
If you wish to usher for one of our performances, contact our House Manager.

How can I purchase tickets for one of your productions?
There are three ways to purchase tickets for Chromolume Theatre produced performances (please note that visiting productions' methods may vary):

  • Purchase them online through our secure server
  • Purchase them in person at the Box Office
  • Purchase them over the telephone by calling (323) 510-1651 x202

Where do I pick up my tickets?
You can pick them up at the Box Office on the date of your performance.

Where is the Box Office located?
The Box Office is located immediately as you enter the theatre, to your right. The Box Office is open one hour prior to performance.

When are auditions for your performances?
Audition dates and times vary depending on the production. You can browse our Audition Page to check out when an upcoming audition is occurring and what to prepare for said audition.

Do you do only do musicals?
Chromolume Theatre's production productions are not only musicals. Occasionally, we will produce a play or a play with music. Visiting productions can vary anywhere between performance art to fully staged musicals.

Where can I find rental information?
To rent our theatre or to find out more information, you can check our Rental Page or call us at (323) 510-1651.

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AUDITIONS

Chromolume Theatre does not currently have any auditions scheduled.

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AUDITIONS

Chromolume Theatre does not currently have any auditions scheduled.

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Cast/Crew Bios

Shaunte Tabb, Dessa Rose
Dessa Rose

Shaunte is ecstatic about joining the cast and crew of Dessa Rose. Shaunte is Guyanese-American from Washington DC. Growing up, she was shy but loved performing in Christmas plays, talent shows, her bedroom, and just about anywhere she could bring out her inner Diana Ross. She received her MFA in Acting from the Regent University. Some of her favorite stage roles include Amanda Wingfield in the Glass Menagerie and Golde in Fiddler on the Roof (yes, she played a Jewish mother in 1905 Imperial Russia.) She has toured China and Taiwan in Aida. Shaunte has landed roles on networks such as the Lifetime and the Investigation Discovery channel and been featured in several commercials. When she's not acting, you can find Shaunte pursuing her other passion: Karaoke! You haven't lived until you've seen her "Rolling on the River" twirl. Eventually, Shaunte plans to create an inner city after-school program and also star alongside Will Smith in a feature film. She's thinking "The Pursuit of Happiness 2". Shaunte is grateful to be back to her first love, the theatre. She is also humbled to tell this amazing story of love, grief, hope and freedom with this incredible family of artists. "Let's Fly!"


Abby Carlson, Ruth
Dessa Rose

Abby is delighted to make her Chromolume Theatre debut in this powerful and inspiring show. Highlights include The Last 5 Years (Cathy), A Man of No Importance (Adele), Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – National Tour (Mrs. Claus/Music Supervisor), Jekyll & Hyde (Emma), Into the Woods (Baker's Wife), Avenue Q (Kate Monster), 3DT's The Wizard of Oz (US Glinda) and Parade (Ovation Winner), and MTW's Evita. Abby holds a Bachelor of Music in Education and Vocal Jazz Performance and a K-12 Teaching Credential from CSULB. She teaches Musical Theatre Voice at the Orange County School of the Arts, as well as piano & voice lessons, and she often works as a Music Director in the LA/OC theatre community. She currently sings in the acapella group WestBeat (contracted at Disney), and plays/sings in So Rad – 90's Cover Band. In her spare time Abby runs with Team World Vision and fights for social justice. She lives in Redondo Beach with her husband, composer/musician Matt, and cat/child Chloe. Huge thanks to the cast and production team for making this such an incredible experience. Much love to her family. All glory to God. Philippians 4:8


Mykell Barlow, Nathan
Dessa Rose

Mykell is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. Born to a musical mother, he has been singing and performing his entire life. His love of performing was more of a hobby until he was cast as the lead role in a regional production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Mykell soon recorded his first album entitled Sound Therapy and because of his music found the opportunity to work with Mike the Situation (Jersey Shore) in a scripted series called New Stage. This led to the opportunity to work and be mentored by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins and Johnny Wright (Justin Timberlake’s manager) on a streaming series called Take the Stage. Recently, Mykell has found success as a writer as well, creating and producing a show called 202-The Series, now in its 2nd season. Mykell is excited to be a part of the phenomenal cast of Dessa Rose as Nathan. He is dedicating his performances to his late aunt, Burnedette Turner.


Matt Mancuso, Nehemiah
Dessa Rose

Matt is very excited to be back at Chromolume after appearing in their production of Songs For a New World (Man 2). He was last seen on the LA Stage in the first workshop for the new musical Tesla, An Elektrical Spectacle (Anital/Ensemble). Other credits include, Rum and Cookies (Max), 99 Histories (u/s Joe, Daniel), The Four of Us (David), Dublin Carol (Mark) and Much Ado About Nothing (Borachio). It is such a pleasure to be working on this remarkable show with this equally remarkable cast! Thank you to my coaches, my friends and family for all your support and belief.


Ken Maurice Purnell, Harker
Dessa Rose

Ken Maurice hails from the Eastern Shore of Maryland as a singer, songwriter, actor, and screenwriter. Ken has participated in many plays, musicals and revues. Ken played the character of Oswald in William Shakespeare's King Lear, in which he earned the high honor of "The Comedic Fool Performance Award". This is Ken's third time performing with Chromolume Theatre, his first was in Zanna Don't portraying Tank, then joining them for their highly entertaining Hollywood Fringe Festival Show, Slightly Off-Broadway Now apart of the talented show, Dessa Rose. Ken has also filmed test pilot shows for HBO and A&E, and was the lead actor in Iconic Dreams Entertainment, Ghetto Dreams a short FIlm for, the Rapper/Actor, Common's Ghetto Dreams Contest. In this Global Contest of over 40 entries worldwide, a 4th placed finished was gained. Most Recently, Ken can be seen in national Commercials for products, like that of, the board game, "Boom Blast Stix", "Cricket Wireless", and "Pop-Chips". And just finished a Sold-Out Original Run, of My Big Gay Italian Funeral in North Hollywood, CA with Defiance Theatre Company. Ken Maurice is Represented by Toni Asterino, of Asterino Entertainment Agency, To find out more about Ken Maurice connect with him on Social Media Instagram and Facebook @KenMaurice


Kymberly Stewart, Dorcas, Rose
Dessa Rose

Kymberly Stewart is honored to be making her debut performance with Chromolume Theatre. A singer/songwriter, composer of children's songs, actress, and lover of all things that the arts inspires, she is grateful for the opportunity to realize her dreams. Making her way from Oakland, CA to Los Angeles, CA, Kymberly has found success through a multitude of life changing events and continues to thrive as a versatile talent. Her most recent performance was at Burbank Children's Theatre company's productions The Prince Who Wouldn't Talk and Once Upon A Wolf. Other stage credits include The Wizard of Oz at the Santa Monica Playhouse, and productions at the legendary Glendale Centre Theatre including Hairspray, A Christmas Carol, Dear Ruth, and You Can't Take It with You. In addition to acting, Kymberly is also a talented singer/songwriter. Proof of this is her original children's CD, Giggles and Curls. Her audience continues to grow as she's also produced and starred in two of her own music videos that show how interactive and engaging her music is for children. The music video for her song, "I Am a Robot," has reached 2.4k views on YouTube and that number continues to climb as she continues to be discovered by parents and teachers seeking refreshing ways to connect to their children and students. Kymberly is also a member of the elite choir group, Angel City Chorale, which encompasses the spirit of community, diversity, and commitment to music in Los Angeles, CA. She continues to showcase her eclectic skill set by performing her original songs for children and their families at museums, outdoor festivals, libraries, and anywhere else her upbeat, fun, and encouraging entertainment is requested. Kymberly Stewart is set on her life's mission to share her talents with the world and hopes to help others discover their own talents and identify with the happy, joyful, and positive values instilled in her innovative music and multi-layered artistic expressions.


Claire Buchignani, Ruth's Mother
Dessa Rose

Claire is thrilled to be a part of such an inspiring show and incredible cast/crew. Chromolume Theatre debut! Some of her favorite roles include: Princess Fiona in Shrek the Musical, Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun and Annabella/Pamela/Margaret in The 39 Steps. This show is dedicated to my amazing fiancé, Andy, thank you for always being my rock. For more fun check out: www.clairebuchignani.com.


Mikhail Roberts, Bertie, Sheriff Hughes
Dessa Rose

Mikhail is thrilled to be making his debut at the Chomolume Theatre, and hopes you enjoy the range of characters he's playing in Dessa Rose. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music B.F.A. Drama program, he always maintains that doing live theater "feels like coming home." In Los Angeles, Roberts has appeared in over a dozen productions since his arrival in 2008--including: USS Pinafore, Complete Female Stage Beauty, Eavesdropper, Charming: The Musical, Footloose, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Chicago Christmas Carol, A Boy's Life, All in the Timing, I Love You You're Perfect Now Change, Wild About Harry, and more. A proud member of both SAG-AFTRA and Actors Equity Association, Mikhail has starred in an array of feature films and television pilots, such as OPUS, Saki the Killer, The Monster's Minds, Acting Normal, and The Amateur, among others; he's also made an appearance on the hit series This Is Us, as the protagonist Jack Pearson's younger brother Nicky. For more information on Mikhail and his body of work, feel free to visit his IMDB page at imdb.me/mikhailroberts.


Bradley Alan Turner, Kaine, Philip
Dessa Rose

Bradley is very excited to be a part of his second production here at Chromolume Theatre! He most recently understudied the roles of Soldier/Writer in Chromolume’s production of Hello, Again last year. A Missouri native, Bradley has been seen (and unseen) both on and off stage throughout Kansas City's theatre scene since graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a BA in Acting. These theatres included Living Room Theatre, Coterie Theatre, Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, Fishtank Performance Studio, Theatre for Young America, Unicorn Theatre and Spinning Tree Theatre. Bradley is newer to the Los Angeles area and is grateful to find a place within the Chromolume Theatre family.


Zach Campa, Mr. Steele, Mr. Oscar, Sheriff Pine
Dessa Rose

Zach is thrilled to be a part of the Los Angeles premiere of Dessa Rose! Previous credits include Liam (Bad Jews), Perchik (Fiddler on the Roof), and Moritz (Spring Awakening). Zach acted in Team Thor Pt. 3, directed by Taika Waititi and writes, produces, directs and acts in his own films including Casey, Last Night and Destination Unknown. He'd like to thank his family and friends for their endless support as well as the cast and production team for their commitment and dedication to this beautifully relevant story. Zach received a BFA in Acting from Baylor University. If you would like to see more of his work visit www.zachcampa.com and http://m.imdb.com/name/nm9082687/


Ambrey Benson, Annabel
Dessa Rose

A native of St. Louis, MO, Ambrey made her way to Los Angeles in pursuit of chasing her dreams. She attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) with a focus on musical theater. Ambrey went on to obtain a bachelor's in Business Management and Marketing at Westwood College LA. She's a studio recording artist who writes lyrics as well. Ambrey has been in multiple live productions such as Grease, Planters and A Piece or My Heart. Her desire is to own a theater that caters to children and adolescents by enhancing their talents in live theater. With a passion to entertain and promise to keep God first, it will most definitely happen!


Margaret Berkowitz, Susannah
Dessa Rose

Margaret Berkowitz is proud to be a part of a show that focuses on the strength and unity of women that transcends race and status; especially at this moment in time. Margaret is an L.A. transplant since graduating from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. She previously attended The University of Oxford where she studied Film Adaptations of Literature, Drama, and appeared in productions such as Chess and Betrayal. She is a Master Class regular at Zak Barnett Studios and studies Improv at Upright Citizens Brigade. Last summer, she originated the leading role of Diane in the musical We The People at The Miles Memorial Playhouse. Next month, she will be playing the role of Sharon Tate in the NMI Workshop of Manson's Girls, bound for this year's Hollywood Fringe Festival. She is so grateful for the unconditional love and support from her friends and family, especially Mama, Pod, and Jake.


Maya Thomas, Dessa Rose u/s
Dessa Rose

Maya "Sh'Von" Thomas is a world renowned and accomplished vocal musician, whose professional experience includes ensemble (background, choir) singer, solo artist, studio session work. Having sang her first solo at the tender age of 2 years old with her church choir. Maya's voice and style has progressed year after year due to her love of music, commitment to high musicianship, and the tutelage of great mentors like the legendary R&B singer, Ray Parker Jr. Since moving to Los Angeles from Washington,D.C she has shared the staged with some jazz music legends. She has toured over 5 countries singing backing vocals for Barbara Morrison, The Blackbyrds, Frankie Beverly and Maze, and jazz trumpeter Johnny Britt to name a few. Recently touring in Japan with Ray Parker Jr and Raydio. Maya also has a passion for musical theatre. Playing various roles with her local church productions. Her highest profile theatre work has been starring in Fats Waller stage play Ain't Misbehavin' as Nell Carter. These days, Maya's focused on making her mark in the entertainment industry. Taking all her talent and experience to the next level. This past year (2017) her voice has been featured on the documentary Walking While Black directed by Oscar winning director Errol Webber as well as a feature film Chasing Titles written and directed by Ryan Egypt. Maya stays in gratitude for all of the opportunities she has had to share her gifts and talents with the world so far, and looks forward to all of the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.


Jessica Jacobs, Ruth u/s
Dessa Rose

Jessica Jacobs (SAG/AFTRA) is an actress/writer/improviser/super-Jew. An alum of the UCB improv training program, she has performed all over town with her indie group, Frenemies, whose sketches have been featured on Funny or Die and College Humor. She played with the Stanford Improvisers in college and has also trained at the Groundlings school. She's currently on the film festival circuit with her short film, Girl Code, which she stars in and co-wrote with her Director, Casey Gates. Through this project they hoped to pull back the curtain on the often insidious ways that women communicate, and also to create jobs for women in front of and behind the camera. Girl Code was shot with a female Director of Photography, all female cast, and over 50% female crew. When she's not performing, Jessica is educating the Jewish youth of the Pacific Palisades, practicing Yoga, and eating stuff with her wonderful husband, Jose. She is absolutely thrilled to be a part of this production, and so grateful to James and the rest of the Chromolume team for welcoming her into the family. Instagram: @jessicajacobsfilm. Website: www.jessicajacobsfilm.com.


Christopher Wood, Nathan u/s
Dessa Rose

Christopher T. Wood has been an actor in Los Angeles for the last fourteen (14) years. His latest role was in the short film Her First Black Guy. He has appeared in over 30 film and television roles and is currently producing his first feature, Catharsis.


Allen Barstow, Nehemiah u/s
Dessa Rose

Allen thanks you for attending this performance of Dessa Rose, Allen's first experience with Chromolume Theatre. Most recently, Allen performed with Little Fish Theater in their Christmas show, preceded by Best of Pick of the Vine (Donald/Daddy Longlegs/Billy/Art) and Private Eyes (Adrian). Other performances include A Winters Tale (Polixenes), Shakespeare in Hollywood (Joe E. Brown), Waiting (McMartin), The Debate (God who Loves), and Man of La Mancha (Dr. Curasco). He also enjoys studying with the Groundlings, Anteaus, Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, and Theatre 68. In his spare time, Allen invites you to join him for some fencing, beach volleyball, or spikeball. Lastly, Allen hopes you enjoy this production as much as he enjoys being in it.


James Esposito, Director, Scenic Designer
Dessa Rose

James is thrilled to be back in the director's chair for the Los Angeles Premiere of this very powerful and moving musical, Dessa Rose. He most recently directed Chromolume's critically acclaimed production of Pacific Overtures this past December, as well as Chromolume's 2016 production of Songs For A New World. He is a founding member of Chromolume Theatre and is currently the V.P. of Operations. Sound design credits include Zanna, Don't!, Next Thing You Know, Bird, Prez, Do Lord Remember Me, Secrets Every Smart Traveler Should Know, Merrily We Roll Along, Capsized Floatsam, Greek Tragedy, Musical of Musicals, the Musical, Altar Boyz, and Strip, the latter of which he also directed. Scenic Design credits include the NAACP Award Winning production of Do Lord Remember Me and Love Songs - A Musical, both for Chromolume Theatre. On stage, his credits include Company (Bobby), City of Angels (Munoz), Two Gentlemen of Verona (Thurio), Forever Plaid (Sparky), Fiddler on the Roof (Twice!), Cinderella and Chess just to name a few.


Daniel Yokomizo, Musical Director
Dessa Rose

Daniel is incredibly excited to be working with Chromolume Theatre for his sixth professional show! He has worked as a music director for Chromolume on Edges, Songs For A New World, Zanna, Don't and Pacific Overtures and with Art in Relation on It's Only Life. He currently works as an accompanist, and is trying to get his original music published.


Michael Marchak, Choreographer
Dessa Rose

From Philadephia by way of Rhode Island, Michael studied theatre and chemistry at USC. He was last seen on Chromolume's stage playing Mark in Altar Boyz. Having started his dance training at sixteen years old, Michael found a true passion for storytelling through the use of movement. Ballet quickly became a favorite as he trained in jazz, tap and dabbled in hip-hop. Michael works extensively on stage with Crown City Theatre in North Hollywood having recently appeared in Nosferatu during the 2017 Hollywood Fringe. Past productions: Crown City's The Fantasticks (Matt), A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Miles Gloriosus), Cabaret (Ernst, Emcee); San Diego Musical Theatre's White Christmas (dance ensemble, quintet) and A Chorus Line (Mike), Sweeney Todd (Moonlight), Legally Blonde (Moonlight), A Chorus Line (Mark, Morgan Wixon Theatre), Sound of Music (3D Theatricals), The Real Love (Pasadena Civic Auditorium), Once Upon a Mattress (Cabrillo). On-Camera: Competent Charlatan Productions' Bizaria short as well as the part of Ronnie in the feature movie musical Waiting in the Wings: Still Waiting. When Michael isn't in the theatre, he spends his time recording and performing with his boy band, Echo V (@echovmusic) -- Checkout our single "Let You Go" on iTunes! This is Michael's third time choreographing for Chromolume -- having choreographed Zanna Don't and Pacific Overtures -- and he couldn't be more thrilled and grateful for this opportunity to dive into a beautiful and rare piece of theatre. Enjoy! @michaeljmarchak "You've got talent. Don't give up."


Kara McLeod, Costume Design
Dessa Rose

Kara McLeod has been working in theater for a million years, or about 30, depending on how you count it. Currently, when not working on shows, she teaches at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Concordia University and Santa Ana College. Dessa Rose is the third show she has done with Chromolume Theatre, having done costumes for Musical of Musicals, the Musical and last year's production of Pacific Overtures and she's excited to be back with such a great team!


Jesse Baldridge, Lighting Design
Dessa Rose

After working on board the Celebrity cruise ship 'Eclipse' for almost a year, Jesse is eager to be designing back on land again. Since graduating from CalArts in 2015 under the tutelage of professional lighting designer Anne Militello, he has worked with the Luminario Ballet, S.O.S. Entertainment, 4Wall Entertainment, Echo Theatre and also assisted with productions at the Los Angeles Opera, Yeager Designs, & Diavolo Dance Studios. He has designed for various theatre productions, music performances, art installations, and hopes to someday work on more immersive projects such as themed architecture, landscape, tradeshows, conventions, and theme parks.


Jasmine Moreno, Stage Manager
Dessa Rose

Jasmine Moreno: Jasmine is a Los Angeles Valley College student who is majoring in Theater Arts to pursue a career in Stage Management. Although she has worked on school plays as stage manager, this is the first musical she has ever worked on outside of school and she is grateful for Chromolume Theatre for giving her this opportunity. It is a pleasure to work with so many talented people and she feels lucky for joining them in this production.


Ken Werther, Publicity
Dessa Rose

KEN WERTHER PUBLICITY has been a staple in the Los Angeles performing arts community since 1982. Public relations, producing, directing. As producer: All Your Hard Work; The Good Boy; the Queer Classics productions of The Importance of Being Earnest and The Taming of the Shrew. Assistant director: Stop the World, I Want to Get Off (Musical Theatre Guild); The Women of Brewster Place (Celebration Theatre); The Woodsman (Coeurage Theatre Company). For a complete listing of PR activities, visit www.kenwerther.com.

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Reviews

 

Shari Barrett of BroadwayWorld raves...

 

"Chromolume's production is one of the best shows/musicals I have ever seen, hands down!"

 

"Kudos to designer Kara McLeod for her dedication to time period and class appropriate costumes."

 

"Along with [James] Espositio's expert small stage direction and multi-level scenic design, musical director Daniel Yokomizo leads an unseen band of musicians to extraordinary perfection accompanied with cast harmonies that will touch your soul to the point of joy and tears."

 

 

Neal Weaver of Stage Raw raves...

 

"RECOMMENDED!"

 

"Dessa Rose is a rich and satisfying musical that deserves to be better known than it is!"

 

"It is performed with spirit and passion, particularly by [Shaunte] Tabb and [Abby] Carlson."

 

 

Leo Buck of Buck-ing Trends raves...

 

"A genuine gold-medal worthy 'find' of a musical that shouldn’t be missed by anyone eager to experience a daring and dynamic piece of theater."

 

"this is a rich and ambitious work–fast-moving, far-reaching and certainly complex enough; thrillingly, the crew at The Chromolume rise to every challenge it puts forth."

 

"Taken up at the outset by a trio consisting of Kymberly Stewart, Ken Maurice Purnell and Ambrey Benson, eventually the whole cast joins in, until 'Dessa' takes over for the concluding verses. This easily stands out as a Highlight right in the middle of the first act. "

 

"After the break, "Just Over The Line" is another rousing full-company achievement that gives rise to some stunning vocal fireworks."

 

"Stepping into the title role of Dessa Rose Shaunté Tabb positively prevails thanks in no small part to the total conviction she endows her portrayal with, not to mention her magnificent voice that completely fills (and thrills) the entire auditorium!"

 

"Matching her each step in energy, vigor and amazement is Abby Carlson as Ruth. She too, is in fine possession of a deeply expressive voice and superior acting ability, and these she puts to superlative use in every scene she appears."

 

"As Nathan, Mykell Barlow bestows his own considerable voice and stage presence into the role, and although Nathan doesn't really come into his own until the second half, once he does, it's remarkable to see (not to mention hear!)"

 

"Kymberly Stewart...is astounding in her own right in multiple roles"

 

"Very worthy of note also is Bradley Alan Turner who is dashingly handsome with a 'smooth-as-butter' song styling reminiscent of Luther Vandross."

 

 

Eric Gordon of People's World raves...

 

"If you're in or around L.A. and you like musical theatre and you appreciate some social messaging in it, then don't run (you might stumble) but do follow the drinking gourd to see Dessa Rose at the Chromolume Theatre."

 

"The twelve cast members of Dessa Rose carried this show off with an almost shocking professionalism."

 

"Just to arrange the large cast's comings and goings on that little stage is an accomplishment, but the potent content of this little-known work clearly brought out [James] Esposito's best work."

 

"The singing and acting are revelatory in a show that is itself a revelation. I hate to even speculate on the reasons Dessa Rose has been so little produced, but for those within reach, now's your chance."

 

 

Steven Stanley of StageSceneLA says...

 

"[Shaunte] Tabb's and [Abby] Carlson's performances and Ahrens and Flaherty's gorgeous score make Dessa Rose's Los Angeles Premiere worth a Black History Month visit to Chromolume."

 

"As stunning to look at as she is glorious of voice, the fierce and fabulous [Shaunte] Tabb could just as easily be playing Dessa on any major regional theater stage, she is that sensational."

 

"[Matt] Mancuso's increasingly obsessed Nehemiah, [Mikhail] Roberts' Bertie and Sheriff Hughes, [Claire] Buchignani's old-school Ruth's Mother, Ken Maurice Purnell's Harker, and Kymberly Stewart's assortment of mammies each denied her own name are vocal standouts"

 

"Daniel Yokomizo aces Dessa Rose's many musical direction demands."