Leroy and Lucy is a play by Ngozi Anyanwu that delves into the world of music, myth, and magic in a unique and captivating way. The play centers around real-life figure Robert “Leroy” Johnson, a legendary blues guitarist, and songwriter who is said to have made a deal with the devil to become a musical genius. The story unfolds as Leroy encounters Lucy, a mysterious and complex woman who leads him on a journey of music, magic, and mythology.
The play explores the themes of duality and contradiction present in African foundational myths and Christian belief systems. Through witty banter and expert timing, the actors bring the characters of Leroy and Lucy to life, drawing the audience into a world of mystery and intrigue. The lush, shady grove set design adds to the enchanting atmosphere of the play, while the weaving of African, Greek, and Jewish lore sheds light on the way these stories have been homogenized and corrupted for Western consumption.
Anyanwu challenges the audience to dig deeper into the stories and characters presented in the play, encouraging them to explore the rich tapestry of African storytelling and mythology. By remixing traditional tales and archetypes, the play offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes and invites the audience to engage with the material in a new and exciting way.
While Leroy and Lucy may have some moments that feel on the nose or perfunctory, the play ultimately succeeds in delivering a steamy, bluesy two-hander that takes the audience on a delightful journey through music, myth, and magic. By reconnecting with the roots of storytelling and celebrating the richness of African mythology, the play encourages viewers to embrace new perspectives and engage with stories that may have been overlooked in the past.
Overall, Leroy and Lucy is a thought-provoking and engaging piece of theater that challenges the audience to think critically about the stories they consume and the archetypes they encounter. By blending music, myth, and magic, the play offers a fresh and exciting take on familiar themes and invites viewers to explore the rich cultural tapestry of African storytelling.
