The play Ascension is a dark tale about the evils of slavery. But it is also a story of love overcoming the chains that bind it.
Cynthia G. Robinson, a college professor, wrote the play, presented by Robinson Williams Productions, a New York-based company that Robinson founded with her husband, Ronald “Cezar” Williams.
In the play, Ruth, played by Annie Lee Moffett, is a slave engaged to be married to Jacob, played by Williams. But she is caught up in a forced relationship with Master Carlisle, played by Damien Langan.
As did most slave masters, Carlisle saw Ruth as his property and not even her impending marriage to Jacob could loose her from him.
The play explores the power dynamics in the relationships between slave and master. Jacob, angered to know that Carlisle can have his way with his soon-to-be wife, must contain his emotion or else risk death. Ruth must give in to her master’s wishes so that Jacob isn’t sold off to another plantation.
Langan gives Carlisle enough menace without going over the top. Moffet and Williams give seemingly effortless performances as a young couple eager to start a new life together and live in freedom instead of slavery.
Richarda Abrams as Mathilda manages to break the drama with humor and at the same time anchors the play with strength and wisdom.
The word “ascension” is about rising, and this play certainly lives up to its name.
■ Michael Hewlett can be reached at 727-7326 or at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
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Ascension will be performed at 8 p.m. today and 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday at The Catawba at the UNC School of the Arts. For tickets, $37, go by the Benton Convention Center.