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| Photo by Paul Kolnik, Broadway Across America |
Huey Calhoun, a Caucasian, out-of-work stock boy, sneaks into the DJ booth while on a tour at a conservative radio station. Inspired by a recent visit to an R&B dance club, he begins spinning records by African-American rock artists, something unheard of on a broadcasting station. An astounding positive response from young listeners gets Huey a full-time gig on the air. Meanwhile, Huey continues to pursue Felicia, an aspiring African-American singer who he met at the club. As the country nears the brink of the Civil Rights Movement, Huey comes to a crossroads when his success in the entertainment business faces off with racism in The South.
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| Photo by Paul Kolnik, Broadway Across America |
Based on the story of Dewey Phillips and Alan Freed, two of the first white DJs to play "Race Music" on the radio, Memphis tells the struggle of African-Americans in The South, and the views on equality in the 1950s. The passionate, upbeat, and soulful music allowed me to eavesdrop on the changing times without creating the feeling of being lectured by the storyline.
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| Photo by Paul Kolnik, Broadway Across America |
The ensemble of powerhouse voices gave the impression that the entire cast had Idina Menzel-like vocals. Both Huey (Bryan Fenkart) and Felicia (Felicia Boswell) as well as supporting characters Delray, Felicia's brother (Horace V. Rogers), their friends Gator (Rhett George) and Bobby (Will Mann), and Mama (Julie Johnson) continuously brought down the house on every number. The walls shook and my eyes began to tear-up, all while wanting to get up and dance in the aisle.
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| Photo by Paul Kolnik, Broadway Across America |
With songs composed by Bon Jovi keyboardist, David Bryan, and choreography by Jersey Boys' Sergio Trujillo, Memphis is a fast-paced, sign of the times musical that is a must-see for any Broadway lover or first-timer alike.
Memphis runs through February 3 at the Aronoff Center. Buy one, get one free tickets available for peformances on January 31 and February 3. Enter promo code: MEMBOGO
