It’s easy to understand why The Black Rep has staged Samm-Art Williams’ “The Dance on Widow’s Row” three times in the past twenty five years after experiencing the audience’s reaction to the latest production’s opening night presentation.
The Edison Theatre was filled with laughter from start to finish at the ensemble’s antics for the first Black Rep production of 2026 and the latest of their 49th season. The show will run through February 14.
Black Rep staples actors anchor the humor in a play that brings a different type of drama to their stage – the kind rooted in hilarity. “The Dance on Widow’s Row” marks the second season in a row that The Black Rep has featured a comedy for the January production. Patrons truly enjoyed Last year’s presentation of Douglas Lyons’ “Chicken and Biscuits.” They can expect a similar experience through the story of a trio of widows attempting to spin a new suitor in their respective webs.
Magnolia has had enough of her mourning period and is ready to make moves on her new prospective suitor, Deacon Hudson. She has decided to slyly initiate the courtship through a gathering that includes her neighbors – whom all also happen to have dearly departed spouses.
The reputation of the block has been a deterrent for prospective gentlemen callers, but Magnolia refuses to be defeated in her quest for companionship. Unforeseen complications as the party goes off the rails because of an unfortunate turn of events.
Ron Himes once again directs “The Dance On Widow’s Row.” He also stepped up in the clutch to perform the role of Newly Benson on behalf of J. Samuel Davis – whose hilarious, scene-stealing portrayal delighted Black Rep fans for their two previous stagings of the production.
Himes’ ability to fall in line and keep the comedy momentum intact in a manner that didn’t hamper the rhythm of the play or the chemistry of the cast deserves a mention.
His antics, and the impeccable timing of Velma Austin as Simone Jackson, were standouts in a solid ensemble comedy where everyone held their own. Austin’s quick jabs and her embodiment of a freshly widowed former actress delusional about her career are a delight to watch. Black Rep vets Denise Thimes and A.C. Smith brought an authenticity to the budding romance of Magnolia and Deacon Hudson.
Margery Handy as Lois, Tiffany Tenille as Annie and Isaiah DeLorenzo as Randolph rounded out the cast that was up for the challenge of reminding audiences that good theater doesn’t always have to be that serious.
And while Williams carried “The Dance on Widows Row” about 15 minutes too long, the cast keeps the audience engaged until the very end.
The production value added to the enjoyable experience. Tim Jones’ scenic design effectively transports patrons to Magnolia’s living room in the affluent area of Port Town, North Carolina. Sound designer Kareem Deanes gave a pitch-perfect jazz playlist of songs that told their own stories before the show and during intermission. His emphasis on Dinah Washington was chef’s kiss. Costume designer Brandin Vaughn understood the assignment of showcasing 1990s fashion of well-to-do Black women. The black blazer dress on Simone as a culminating moment within the second act was both timeless and totally 90s at the same time – and impeccably tailored to fit Austin’s petite frame.
The Black Rep’s presentation of The Dance on Widow’s Row continues through January 25 at Edison Theatre on the campus of Washington University. For more information, visit www.theblackrep.org or call 314.534.3807.
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