E. Lynn Harris dishes up hot drama in play 'Not A Day Goes By'

Jet, April 5, 2004

Lust, lies and scandal abound in Not A Day Goes By, a play based on the like-titled novel by award-winning author E. Lynn Harris. Adapted for stage and produced by Yolanda Starks, the play stays true to form by tackling juicy relationship issues and controversial themes that are hallmarks of Harris' best-selling books.

The saga, directed by Weyman Thompson, centers on Yancey Harrington Braxton and John "Basil" Henderson, a seemingly perfect power couple whose relationship is the envy of all. Singer Trenyce of "American Idol" breathes life and voice into Yancey, a beautiful Broadway diva-in-training who stops at nothing to get what she wants. And what she wants is Basil (Christian Keyes), the charming, confident and undeniably handsome pro athlete-turned-businessman.

But don't expect a pretty fairy tale from E. Lynn Harris. The story unfolds with confession after jaw-dropping confession, creating an avalanche of dark skeletons and secret agendas that threaten to ice the couple's dreams for a happily-ever-after.

Crowd-pleasers include Basil's acquaintance Zurich (Ryan Gentles), whose ultra-chiseled frame and striking features make for tasty eye candy, and Doc (Gary Owen of BET's "Comic View"), an unconventional therapist who offers comic relief from the painful issues that plague Basil's psyche.

However, it's veteran Jackee Harry who nearly steals the show as the sassy, ever-scheming Ava, Yancey's trash-talking mother and an original G.D.--Gold Digger. Rounding out the talented cast are Dawn Lyn Miller-Johnson as Windsor, Yancey's financial and moral advisor; Mario D. Woodard (Derrick); Valerie L. Rudolph (Lois); and Anndretta Lyle (Mimi Rodgers).

Songs peppered throughout the show under the musical direction of Shaun Martin add texture to scenes and showcase the rich vocal talents of Trenyce, Harry and Miller-Johnson. Keyes and Woodard also display singing chops during the play's tender moments.

Currently touring across the nation under ALW Entertainment and AJ Peaches Entertainment, Not A Day Goes By serves its drama hot and leaves audiences begging for seconds.