Story thread · 2 reports / 2 sources

‘For Colored Girls’ returns to Chicago, as relevant as ever

wbez.org · 13dShare

A tale of abuse, mental illness and death, Lady in Red’s monologue is the most harrowing in “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf.” But actress Teena Marie is embracing the role with confidence and conviction. “I can visualize it because I’ve been there, and I’ve seen it,” said Marie, who stars in ETA Creative Arts Foundation’s upcoming rendition of the late Ntozake Shange’s landmark 1976 play. Directed by Donn Carl Harper, the production opens Saturday and runs through Aug. 30 at the group’s Grand Crossing theater. “I have family that went through mental health issues. I’ve witnessed aunties putting the man before the kids until it was too late.” Beyond nailing the part, Marie said she is driven by a mission to help women leave dangerous relationships . “That’s why I’ve got to do this story,” she said. “I’ve got to tell it right.” Teena Marie, Lady in Red (center), sings during a rehearsal of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the

First report: ‘For Colored Girls’ returns to Chicago, as relevant as ever — suntimes.com, 13d