Charlayne Woodard can do no wrong. Though her latest one- woman autobiographical monologue, IN REAL LIFE, deals with familiar material--the struggles of a young wanna-be to make her mark in showbiz--Woodard is such a captivating performer that she can transform dross into gold. This African-American gamin exudes life-force and vibrancy, backing everything up with an emotional honesty and expressiveness that connect instantly and deeply. It doesn't hurt, either, that she has a billion-dollar smile, can sing like a lark, dance up a storm--and write like a sage.
When the show, Ain't Misbehavin', became a Broadway success, Woodard, who landed her role by singing an a capella version of "Auld Lang Syne," became even more troubled and conflicted. Although she liked the fame (and money), she knew she was doing damage to her ideals and psyche. The toll this took on her are well-dramatized in In Real Life, which is also notable for its sharply drawn backstage portraits of her fellow performers. Woodard is equally funny--and touching--when she impersonates some of the other important people in her life: her agent, lover, a couple of girlfriends (including a famous cabaret star), and a self-destructive Rastafarian guru.
Woodard's show is beautifully directed by Daniel Sullivan, who keeps the narrative flow going with a sensitive and unobtrusive hand. Kathy A. Perkins' lighting design is magical as well, ditto Daryl Waters original music.
(At the Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., LA., CA through Sept. 16; call (213) 628-2772 or visit www.TaperAhmanson.com. In the fall, the show will move to the Seattle Repertory Theatre, which co-commissioned and helped develop In Real Life).
