"Gem Of The Ocean" to close 6 Feb

Gem Of The Ocean, which was booking to 27 Feb 2005, and recently extended for a second period to the 13 Mar, is now to close 6 Feb 2005 at the Walter Kerr Theatre.

When Gem Of The Ocean closes on the 6 Feb it will have played 15 preview and 72 regular performances

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 Earl Jelks, Anthony Chisholm, Raynor Scheine.

Gem of the Ocean is the ninth play in Wilson's 10-play cycle chronicling the African-American experience through each decade of the 1900s. Set in 1904 it 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.�