4 out of 5 stars

To celebrate the EGOT-winning legend, “The Whoopi Monologues” brings together five of the greatest Black actresses working today to revisit Goldberg’s breakthrough 1984 one-woman show. The powerhouse cast — Kerry Washington, Kecia Lewis, Dominique Fishback, Danielle Pinnock and Kara Young — all have great moments playing Whoopi's characters, but Pinnock and Young beautifully embody Goldberg’s spirit and comedic sensibilities. The others, while strong, face challenges inherent with their characters (and their respective situations): For example, Washington's monologue concludes with an abrupt and jilting surprise, while Fishback has the hurdle of portraying a young child. — Justin McCallum

At Lincoln Center Theater, through Aug. 30, 2026; lct.org. (Jurnee Smollett replaces Kerry Washington starting Aug 4, 2026.) (Review date: Aug. 2, 2026)