Review: Berkeley Rep's musical 'Mexodus' an ingenious history lesson with humor and heart
"Mexodus," a touching musical in its West Coast premiere at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, tells the story of a slave who encounters a farmer while trying to escape to Mexico— and so much more.
Brian Quijada and Nygel D. Robinson, both dazzling actors, musicians and singers, created and star in the truly unique and captivating show. Funny and friendly, they immediately grab the audience at the outset, providing the "turn off your cell phone" and emergency exit public service announcement set to music: Quijada beatboxing, Robinson playing an imposing acoustic bass, both inviting audience interaction.
Then, moving about on a stage of multi-level platforms packed with electronics, instruments and old-time video screens, they adorably introduce themselves and a main theme of their show: the Underground Railroad that Black slaves traveled from Texas to Mexico, where slavery had been abolished in the mid-1800s.
When they shared that they never knew about such a thing (until recently) on opening night, seemingly everyone in the audience agreed.
Under seamless direction by Berkeley Rep Associate Artistic Director David Mendizábal, the performers cleverly and gradually morph into their 19th century alter egos, propel themselves with thrilling, varied music (played live and electronically looped) and scene-setting lyrics.
Robinson is Henry, a Black child sold into slavery in Texas, who, after years of labor, begins a dangerous escape effort, including trying to cross the Rio Grande. Quijada is Carlos, the haunted tenant farmer, who, initially suspicious of the Black man he comes across, ultimately connects with him. They do it without words, in a simply gorgeous acoustic guitar duo.
In certain ways, "Mexodus" indeed is reminiscent of "Hamilton," delightfully serving up a history lesson with sympathetic characters and smart rapping. It's also filled with fun 21st century technical trappings. (Shout out to sound designer Mikhail Fiksel and audio engineer Courtney Jean for the impeccable looping.)
Still, it's much more than a hip-hop musical. Quijada's and Robinson's diverse musical prowess is unmatched, as are their storytelling and writing skills. A bonus in "Mexodus" is the way they ingeniously weave aspects of their own personal backgrounds into the kaleidoscopic presentation.
Shedding light on a little-known piece of history in a contemporary way—with laughs, great music and nothing snooty —"Mexodus" is an appealingly fresh journey.
