In the play “Hoodoo Love,” a magic spell is cast to bind into a loving relationship the virile but wandering blues man Ace of Spades with Toulou, an aspiring vocalist who dreams about getting out of Memphis. This conjuring of supernatural forces is a pivotal moment in the two-act drama with music by Katori Hall, which is receiving a new production from the Black Theatre Troupe of Upstate New York. The show opens on Thursday, June 1 and runs through Sunday, June 11 in the Iselin Studio, Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany.
In staging that crucial scene, director Jean-Remy Monnay brings some firsthand knowledge of the Haitian folk religion known as Hoodoo. He was born and raised in Haiti and though he never practiced, he’s observed actual Hoodoo ceremonies and is integrating authentic elements into his staging. “I understand some of the movements and chants and I’m expanding that,” he says.
An even more authoritative interpretation of the script comes from Josie Smith, the actor playing Candylady, a community elder and former slave who guides and instructs Toulou in crafting the love spell. Smith is a mambo or priestess of Hoodoo and during her training has made numerous visits to Haiti for instruction and initiations. A state worker by day, she also runs a client-based service called Healing Whispers while now and then performing in local theater.
“Candylady is on the level with the young woman. She’s open, honest and truthful and does good work,” says Smith. “It’s interesting to be in her headspace because she still carries some themes from her past. Her frame of mind is also informed by what’s important in a woman’s life during the time period.” The play takes place during the Great Depression.
“Hoodoo Love”
When: Opens 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 1 and runs for seven more…
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