Theater Thursday - Caroline or Change

We were given complimentary tickets for review purposes to Caroline or Change. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.

What: Caroline or Change

Where: Studio 54

             254 W. 54 St.

             New York, NY

Who: Recommended for Ages 16 and Up

When: Through January 9, 2022

The Roundabout Theater Company's current production of Caroline, or Change at Studio 54 is based on a revival of the show that ran in London in various theaters from 2017 to 2019. Sharon D. Clarke starred as Caroline in that production, and she repeats her role here. Although the performances in the show are generally good all-around, the show is clearly Clarke's and she is a force in the role. Sammy Williams is also particularly good in the role of Caroline's headstrong daughter, Emmie. 

The show is very timely in that it deals with race relations and the inequities between a black maid and the white family she works for. However, there is a lot more than just that going on in the show. There is a second wife trying to fit into her new family and build a relationship with her stepson who is completely uninterested in forming a bond with her, a young teenage activist who is not afraid to speak her mind, and more. In fact, at times, there is seems to be so much going on in the show that it is hard to keep track of it all. 

There aren't any warm and fuzzy characters in this show, and at times all of the characters can be unlikeable including Caroline. The music is a mix of different styles including gospel, Motown, and even Jewish klezmer music and more. While some of the songs are fun to listen to and others are stirring within the context of the musical, none are all that memorable outside of it.  All in all, however, this show is still worth seeing for the performances especially Clarke's. 

And that's our view. Tune in Sunday for this week's Sunday Scoop.

Photo credits: All Caroline or Change production photos by Joan Marcus