“Gem of the Ocean” at Long Wharf Theatre
Any August Wilson play really needs to be lived in and treasured. So, it is wonderful news to be able to say that Long Wharf Theatre’s current production of “Gem of the Ocean” is a complete success and it has been directed in a fashion where one can really luxuriate in the language in the play. Featuring a flawless cast and stunning visual ideas, this show draws an audience member into a world onstage that will likely take one’s breath away.
Cheyenne Barboza is the terrific director of this production and everything falls into place wonderfully throughout. And it is an added bonus that “Gem of the Ocean” is being presented at the Canal Boat House, which is right next to the ocean, with cast members making entrances from outside the theatre. “Gem of the Ocean” at Long Wharf Theatre is a must-see and it is a show that truly deserves to be embraced.
In a company of equals, Denise Burse stands out a bit as the character of Aunt Ester Tyler. Bringing stature and authority to her part, Burse seems to own the stage whenever she is on it. Aunt Ester is a cleanser of people’s souls and it is actually the need of the character of Citizen Barlow (the excellent Matthew Elam) to see Aunt Ester which sets the play in motion. On Omid Akbari’s weathered, multi-level set, which feels completely right for this production, the other characters in the play are gradually introduced. “Gem of the Ocean” is made up of a strong ensemble of actors and everyone gets their moment in the show to shine.
Grace Porter, as Black Mary, is enormously endearing and she brings such beauty and sensitivity to her part. Black Mary is more or less the caretaker for Aunt Ester and the relationship between the two women is fascinating. Also adding to the production is the formidable Terrence Riggins as Solly Two Kings, who can pretty much stand up to anyone. When the powerful Riggins takes hold of a particular scene, one can really feel it. Thomas Silcott is expert as Eli and the fine Mike Boland is also on hand as a peddler of goods, who appears periodically at Aunt Ester’s home.
If there is one character who seems at odds with the rest of the company, it would be Bjorn DuPaty as Caesar Wilks. The fantastic DuParty plays an officer of the law and his way of running the town makes him a bit of a heavy. Indeed, although he is the brother of Black Mary, there is a rift between them that remains unresolved. This conflict brings electricity to the stage, however, and these sparks ultimately propel “Gem of the Ocean” from beginning to end.
Of course, with any August Wilson play, the dialogue is textured and illuminating and one could sit all day listening to his words. This eloquence is matched by the beautiful costume design by Toni-Leslie James and Travis Chinick, and the expressive lighting design, courtesy of Joseph X. Fonseca, makes the whole production shimmer. Without giving too much away, there are supernatural moments in “Gem of the Ocean” in the second act which practically shake the whole theatre. When the characters enter the “City of Bones,” in an attempt for Citizen Barlow to get his soul cleansed, this play possesses an almost God-like force.
However, any description of the actions and scenes in “Gem of the Ocean” cannot begin to do this play full justice. This is truly a work which deserves to be absorbed and nurtured and I will confess that I literally did not want this show to end. Long Wharf Theatre’s staging of “Gem of the Ocean” is a benchmark of excellence and everyone involved with this production should be applauded. Come experience the magic of August Wilson’s world and language for yourself, for this is certainly a play which can be most highly recommended.
Long Wharf Theatre’s “Gem of the Ocean” runs through March 15, 2026, at the Canal Dock Boathouse, 475 Long Wharf Dr., New Haven CT. For tickets and information, please call 203-693-1486 or visit longwharf.org.
Photo: (L-R): Matthew Elam and Denise Burse
Photo by Marc J. Franklin
Reviews by Zander Opper 