| Encores! Jelly’s Last Jam—WOW! | |
| Last Edit: Zelgo 06:56 pm EST 03/04/24 | |
| Posted by: Zelgo 06:50 pm EST 03/04/24 | |
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| Just Wow! I went to the Sunday matinee and marveled at the level of talent on that stage. So thankful that I live in a city that can attract those actors The specificity of the title role is mindboggling—handsome, light-skinned Black actor who is an amazing singer, actor, and tap dancer. Lo and behold, Nicholas Christopher fit the bill perfectly. All the other actors fit their roles impeccably too (although I wish Joaquina Kalukango acted with more world-weariness as the original, Tonya Pinkins, had). Leslie Uggams, at 80, has the same voice and presence she had when she was much younger. Billy Porter took a clever, sassy twist on his role—totally worked. It was a hoot to see the three original Hunnies, who serve as a Greek Chorus of sorts, come back to reprise their roles Every dance, every song was a show stopper. One of the best Encores! I’ve ever seen. I recall being thrilled at the original 30 years ago. Encores! confirmed my memory that this is a stunning, dramatic work that serves as such an exciting time in the theatre. As an aside, it was great to see many African Americans in the audience. Some would call out during the show: You go! That’s it! Build it slowly—Take your time! (As Christopher started a tap routine. He then acknowledged the commenting audience member with a quick flick of his finger during the thunderous applause). Normally, I would find audience participation annoying, but here I loved it! Everyone was emotionally invested in what was happening on stage. With each call, it spurred the actors to work harder. THAT’s what theatre is supposed to do. |
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