Cierra Lemott 
Spoilers ahead! Read at your own risk.
The musical Leroy and Lucy, by Ngozi Anyanwu and directed by Awoye Timpo, tells the story of two lost souls meeting at the crossroads. Taking place in Clarksdale, Mississippi, also called the Delta, this play is inspired by Blues musician Robert Leroy Johnson who was said to have traded his soul in exchange for talent and fame.
Leroy, played by Jon Michael Hill, is on his way to Memphis where he’s going to start his new life and Blues career. We’ve seen work from Hill in the past with Steppenwolf’s past production Purpose. On his journey, he stumbles across Lucy, played by Brittany Bradford, as she’s singing and playing her guitar in the dead of night, all alone.
The two spark up a conversation, leading to secrets being exposed from the both of them. The more the play goes on, the more the two characters get to know each other. The chemistry between these characters was apparent from the start with their banter and joking.
There was mention of various stories and legends by Lucy, including how Lilith was exiled for not following orders and even Medusa. The point being made was that a lot of times, goddesses who have been labeled as “evil” really weren’t, just like her. She felt that they all had a justifiable reason to act in the ways that they did. If you haven’t got it by now, Lucy is short for Lucifer. Leroy even said it himself that she felt familiar, like the feeling of temptation.
The thing that compelled me as much as the story itself was the talent from the cast. There weren’t any musical tracks playing over speakers. The audience got to witness the cast play their instruments and sing with great power. It was a great play and a great experience at the Steppenwolf, as always.
If you’re interested in seeing Leroy and Lucy, the play will be showing at the Steppenwolf until December 15. Tickets range from $20-$92 and can be purchased here.
By Cierra Lemott, Columbia College Chicago Alum
Instagram: @kodakscamera
X: @LemottCierra
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