"Gem Of The Ocean" is now booking to the 13 Mar

Tue 25 Jan 2005 "Gem Of The Ocean" is now booking to the 13 Mar Gem Of The Ocean, which was booking to 27 Feb 2005, extends for a second time and is now taking bookings to the 13 Mar at the Walter Kerr Theatre Gem Of The Ocean, which opened on 6 Dec 2004, following previews from 23 Nov, is written by August Wilson and directed by Marion McClinton. Gem Of The Ocean stars Delroy Lindo, Phylicia Rashad, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, LisaGay Hamilton, John Jelks, Anthony Chisholm, Raynor Scheine. Tells the story of Aunt Ester, a legendary community elder with astonishing powers. Arriving on her doorstep late one night looking for guidance is Citizen Barlow, who has come to the big city in search of a better life. He will learn lessons of the past on his journey to shape the future. Gem Of The Ocean opened to mainly excellent reviews. BEN BRANTLEY of the NEW YORK TIMES says �It's a reminder that when Mr. Wilson is at the top of his form, there are few living playwrights who can touch him.� CLIVE BARNES of the NEW YORK POST says "Rashad herself, in a griot-like performance of unflustered power and oceanic depth, makes our evening worthwhile." HOWARD KISSEL of NEW YORK DAILY NEWS says �At times, the play seems strained in its effort to sound so many notes, but the actors give Wilson's noble vision a luminous aura.�