Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents ‘Broadway in Black’
World-premiere musical revue to feature decades of Broadway’s greatest hits
SARASOTA, FL – Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents its 2017 summer show, Broadway in Black, from June 21 – July 23, 2017. During this world-premiere musical revue created and adapted by WBTT founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs, the Troupe will salute Broadway musicals with songs that span decades and a wide variety of musical styles but should appeal to audiences of all ages.
The production will feature favorite songs from award-winning shows and breakthrough roles that helped launch the careers of such Black artists as Melba Moore in Purlie, Ben Vereen in Pippin, Jennifer Holliday in Dreamgirls, and Nell Carter in Ain’t Misbehavin’. Audiences will enjoy songs like “On Broadway,” “Sophisticated Lady,” “Hit Me With A Hot Note,” “Ease On Down The Road,” “Steppin’ To The Bad Side,” “New York, New York,” “One Night Only,” and so many more.
“Broadway shows have had a significant influence on American pop culture and many careers have been launched from those stages,” said Jacobs. “Broadway in Black salutes the musicals and the celebrities who changed the face of Broadway through their creative productions, impactful stories, and incredible talent. I look forward to celebrating these greats with local audiences!”
Director is Jacobs. Music director is LaTerry Butler. Cast members are Syreeta S. Banks, Ariel Blue, Brian Boyd, Keenan Carver, JoAnna Ford, Derric Gobourne, Cherise James, Michael Mendez, Raleigh Mosely, II, Leon S. Pitts, Joshua Thompson and Topaz von Wood. The live band includes LaTerry Butler on piano, Jamar Camp on auxiliary keys, and Donald “Snoopy” Watts on drums.
The crew includes: James E. Dodge III, production manager; Juanita Munford, production stage manager; Ryan Finzelber, lighting design; Annette Breazeale, property master; Tony Moon, music consultant; and Donald Frison, choreographer.
“In recent seasons, we’ve performed everything from drama to classic musicals to uproarious comedies,” said WBTT executive director Julie Leach. “However, musical revues have always been WBTT’s trademark. We are confident this offering will have audiences tapping their toes and singing along!”
Performances, which take place at the WBTT theater (1646 10th Way, Sarasota), are 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $39.50/adults, $22/students and active military with valid ID. Call the Box Office (941-366-1505) or go to westcoastblacktheatre.org.
About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe:
The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe of Florida, Inc. is the only professional black theater company on Florida’s West Coast. The mission is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates the African-American experience, to attract diverse audiences, to support and develop African-American artists, and to build the self-esteem of African-American youth. For more information on WBTT, visit the website at westcoastblacktheatre.org or call (941) 366-1505.
