Never having seen the movie or read the book, I was completely unfamiliar with this story. I loved it.

I think this production is on the move across North America. If it comes to a town near you, go and see it.

Although the cast is all black, the basic themes really have nothing to do with race. It’s all about growing up and making the best of what life god has given you. It’s about living through physical and emotional hardship — through oppression — and finding happiness within yourself.

Throughout our lives, The Girl and I both have come to know how hard it is to break away from the ways of our parents, yet we both know how important it is to do that and find your own way when their ways impede you. This show brought our pasts back to life.

Without discussing the show much afterwards, we both know the meaning it had for each of us.