The Goodman Theatre's production of August Wilson's "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" highlights a single day in the recording studio, giving us a glimpse into the lives of all those involved.

Blues singer Ma Rainey (played by E. Faye Butler) is a prima donna, often throwing tantrums until her demands are met. Her agent, Irv, and studio executive Sturdyvant placate her because they both know she generates more profit for the studio than all their other artists combined.

Conflicts arise within Ma's band as they await the tardy lead singer. Young Levee clashes with his older bandmates due to his inflated ego and differing musical tastes. Al'Jaleel McGhee steals the show as Levee, taking us through his range of emotions.

The show reveals how different people resolve conflict in different ways. Ma, the diva bullies her employers; Irv plays peacemaker, conceding nearly every demand; and Levee lashes out in anger.

Rather than changing sets, Linda Buchanan chose to segment the stage into different rooms and use lighting to highlight the area where the action took place. This kept the pace moving throughout the two-and-a-half-hour performance.

As with all of Wilson's plays, this one deals with race. Ma knows her white patrons would dismiss her based on her skin color if they were not making money from her voice. Levee and the band members distrust their white employees but must work within a racist system, stacked against them.

Director Chuck Smith brought raw emotion and music to this revival.