Fri 2/10-Sun 2/19
Fats Waller (1904-1943) was known as one of the foundational musicians of jazz piano, someone on whose style those who came after him built. But he was also known as a composer of hundred of well-known tunes such as “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and “Honeysuckle Rose,” being the first Black man to write music for a Broadway music, and being such an engaging comedic performer that, legend has it, he was kidnapped by gangster Al Capone’s henchmen to perform at a birthday party for him.
The 1978 revue-style Broadway show Ain’t Misbehavin’ pays tribute to Waller, his era and the sound that filled New York City venues such as the Savoy Ballroom and the Cotton Club in the 1930s.
Near West Theatre will be presenting this engaging musical trip into the past. Directed by Mariah Burks and Kenya Woods, a cast of five, including A. Harris Brown, Kyla Burks, Sara Chapman, Alexis Maxine and Anthony Savage-Williams, will carry the audience back to the Harlem Renaissance years when creativity was bursting out of every block.
“This collection of work invites everyone inside the head of Fats Waller, and inside the culture and the mood of the Harlem Renaissance,” says Woods. “In addition to being completely entertained, I hope people understand the brilliance of this musical and how it’s stood with time, as well as walk away feeling a deeper connection and admiration of this NWT family and community.”
The show runs Friday-Sunday for two weekends. Tickets are “pay what you can,” with a suggested donation of $15 for adults and $12 for children under 12. Go to nearwesttheatre or call 216-961-6391.