The Pulitzer Prize winning play Topdog/Underdog written by Suzan-Lori Parks hit theatres recently at the Fremont Centre in Pasadena, California. The two-character play centers on the rivalry between African American brothers Lincoln and Booth who live in a run down efficiency apartment in New York City.
Abandoned by a dysfunctional mother and father as children, the brothers learn how to hustle the streets of New York at a young age, barely making ends meet. Booth, having no real tangible skills to hold down a job is still trying to master the game of three cards Monte, while Lincoln works a “legitimate” job, portraying the 16th President in whiteface, ironically.
Although the ending is not surprising, the colorful language and vivid dialogue invigorate the sibling rivalry between two brothers who struggle to overcome their dismal circumstances, limited opportunities in employment, housing and female relations.
The Food: The brothers live in a low rent district in New York. During the play, Lincoln and Booth eat take out from a local Chinese restaurant. Booth opts for shrimp friend rice while Lincoln settles for the beef. These are typical locale Chinese dishes that can be found at any corner in the City. If you are catching the run of Topdog/Underdog in Pasadena there are a wide variety of restaurants in downtown Pasadena. If you enjoy light fare, then try Pop Champagne and Dessert. The Popcorn ice cream is original and a great tasty treat.
