Pullman Porter Blues is a 2012 play written by Cheryl West. Set in 1937, during the Great Depression, the play shows the story of the Pullman porters on a train ride aboard the Panama Limited from Chicago to New Orleans.
Locations performed
Arena Stage Kreeger Theater in Washington, D.C. Goodman Theatre in Chicago
Cast
Grandfather Monroe - Larry Marshall
Cephas - Warner Miller or Tosin Morohunfola
Sylvester - Cleavant Derricks
Train conductor Tex
Lutie the stowaway
Music
Hezekiah’s Song
This Train
Sweet Home Chicago
Wild Women Don't Have the Blues
Panama Limited Chant
Panama Limited Blues
900 Miles
Joe Louis Blues
Hop Scop Blues
That Lonesome Train Took My Baby Away
Trouble in Mind
Grievin’ Hearted Blues
Hezekiah’s Song (Reprise)
Reception
Variety reviewer Paul Harris wrote: "Despite its flaws, "Pullman Porter Blues" offers delightful moments and earns kudos for attitude." The Chicago Readers Justin Hayford was critical of the play's "repetitive scenes," while the Chicago Tribunes Chris Jones found the production to be "a good 15 minutes too long" but was nonetheless entertained.
References
External links
Interview with playwright Cheryl West and actor Larry Marshall on St. Louis Public Radio KWMU-1