FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF

Shange’s powerful play would seem a perfect match for audio, and, indeed, aspects of it are strong. Her opening essay contextualizes the work’s background and purpose for listeners, and the play, composed of interweaving poetry, is moving. Significantly, her exploration of the lives of “colored girls” strikes chords of truth still, some 30 years later. Thandie Newton’s narration works well with the introduction. Her voice echoes the weight and emphasis of Shange’s words. Further, when reading the play, Newton creates distinct voices for each part. However, the impact of the play would be greater if members of a full cast were delivering each part instead of Newton reading each character’s name and then, his or her lines. The resulting awkwardness comes between the listener and the work. L.E. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2011]