STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — Fiction and fact meld in the regional premiere of "The American Five," now playing at the Larry Vaber Stage of the Unicorn Theatre. 

 

The play takes a fictionalized look at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his four closest confidants in the months leading up to the famed March on Washington on Aug. 28, 1963. The quintet, through differing opinions, animated arguments, constant threats of violence and a late-night meal featuring challah bread and wine, become a family as they prepare for the history-making march that galvanized the Civil Rights movement.

 

Most of us know the King saga. It's the second act in which playwright Chess Jakobs' genius shines. Prejudice runs rampant here: Is Stanley Levison, a Jewish lawyer from New York who shows up in Montgomery to join the fight for racial equality and "to repair the world," viewed as white? Jewish? Both? And march strategist and organizer Bayard Rustin experiences his own fight for civil rights because of his homosexuality. Here, Jakob explores prejudice on different levels.

 

The cast is top-notch with many emotional highs. As King, Rashun Carter (who would look more like his character if he had a full moustache) and Sydney Elisabeth (as Coretta Scott King) are at their best during a scene that bounces between humor and poignancy. 

 

She questions her husband about his meeting with President John F. Kennedy; he is angry and refuses to discuss it. "There is no 'you' out there, without a 'me,' in here," she says, leading King to agree that because of her self-worth and unwavering devotion to him, she is "Coretta Scott Queen."

 

As Clarence Jones, King's personal counsel, Brett Diggs has assurance and dignity; Harry Smith's portrayal of lawyer Stanley Levison, is nothing short of extraordinary. Destan Owens' performance as gay Bayard Rustin is the play's most outstanding performance as he defends his relations with men: "You don't get to judge me!" he tells King. "I'm just trying to find love."

 

"The American Five" is tightly directed by Gerry McIntyre; the historic period projections and footage/designed by Alex Hill remind people that there are dreams, such as hope and change, that are still being fought.

 

"The American Five" continues at The Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge through July 11. For more tickets or more information, call 413-997-4444 or berkshiretheatregroup.org.

 

SPOTLIGHT ON: HARRY SMITH

 

Hours before a performance, we spoke with Harry Smith, who plays Jewish lawyer Stanley Levison in "The American Five." In the play, Smith, who lives in Philadelphia, hides his British accent (he was born in Sussex, England) but offstage, we might have been overseas. Here, he chats about Berkshire audiences, James Taylor and the best bar to find a Manhattan.

 

What do the Berkshires and the area offer that Philadelphia doesn't offer?

I didn't expect such a beautiful place. When I first came here three years ago I didn't know what to expect — the warmth of the people, the beautiful weather, the scenery, and I was blown away by the theater community. Last year, there was an evening of sea shanties at Arrowhead, Herman Melville's house! Philadelphia doesn't offer such incredible things. I first came here three years ago and am still overwhelmed by the audiences. They are curious and intelligent and want to hear different stories. I've gotten more standing ovations here than anywhere else.

 

When a matinee is over, what do you do?

I love hiking. After last Sunday's matinee, I jumped in the car and drove to Monument Mountain in Great Barrington. There is a small parking lot and I hiked 600 feet. It took about 90 minutes and the view of the Housatonic River Valley was stunning. It was better than going to the Y in Pittsfield.

 

What are other favorite spots?

The small bar at the Red Lion Inn. I think it's called Widow Bigham's Tavern. It's a favorite. They serve terrific cocktails. If I was there right now, I'd order a Manhattan. If I'm in Pittsfield, I like Patrick's Pub. If I am hungry, I head to 101 Restaurant & Bar, the restaurant on the second floor of the Holiday Inn in Pittsfield. They serve Southern-style food that's great.

 

This is your first summer here. Planning a visit to Tanglewood?

We're off the Fourth of July, and I would love to get there. James Taylor is playing and I'm a fan. I saw him in Philly about 10 years ago, and I am ready to hear those songs again.