Play On! brings a fresh, vibrant twist to Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, transporting the classic tale of mistaken identities and love triangles to 1940s Harlem. Set in the legendary Cotton Club during the height of the jazz era, this jukebox musical marries Shakespearean comedy with the timeless music of Duke Ellington. Produced by Talawa Theatre Company in collaboration with several other leading UK theatres, including Liverpool Playhouse, the production showcases the creative power of Black British theatre while celebrating the exuberance of Ellington's music. Originally conceived by Sheldon Epps with a book by Cheryl L. West, Play On! premiered on Broadway in 1997, receiving three Tony nominations but never quite breaking into the mainstream. Now, with Michael Buffong at the helm as director, this UK production has breathed new life into the show, making it a must-see for lovers of jazz and Shakespeare alike.
At the heart of Play On! is the story of Viola, reimagined here as Vy (Tsemaye Bob-Egbe), an ambitious songwriter who arrives in 1940s Harlem with dreams of breaking into the male-dominated jazz scene. When Vy learns that the doors to success are firmly shut to women, she adopts the persona of Vy-man to gain entry into the competitive world of music. The Duke, a brooding bandleader plagued by writer’s block (Earl Gregory), is captivated by Vy-man’s musical talent and enlists ‘him’ to court Lady Liv (Koko Alexandra), the sultry star of the Cotton Club, on his behalf. As in Twelfth Night, romantic complications ensue, with mistaken identities and unrequited love weaving a tapestry of comic tension. Supporting characters like the mischievous Jester (Llewellyn Jamal) and the stern club manager Rev (Cameron Bernard Jones) add depth to the plot, further complicating matters as alliances shift and secrets unravel. The show balances Shakespeare’s sharp wit with the soulful rhythms of jazz, creating a unique narrative that is both heartfelt and humorous.
The production's design team, led by Ultz, immerses the audience in the vibrant atmosphere of the Cotton Club. The set, while minimal, cleverly evokes the glamour and grit of Harlem’s jazz scene, with a red proscenium arch framing the stage and creating an intimate club environment. The live band, prominently featured onstage, enhances the immersive quality of the show, seamlessly integrating with the action. Johanna Town’s lighting design bathes the stage in rich hues of red, orange, and blue, evoking the sultry, smoke-filled ambience of a jazz club. The costumes, also designed by Ultz, pay homage to the elegance of the 1940s, with sharp suits and glamorous gowns that capture the era’s style. Lady Liv’s dazzling costumes, in particular, mirror her star status, while Vy-man’s transformation from feminine to masculine attire is both subtle and effective.
Musically, Play On! is a feast for the ears. Duke Ellington’s iconic jazz compositions, from "It Don’t Mean a Thing" to "Mood Indigo," are performed live with vibrant energy, and the musical arrangements by Benjamin Kwasi Burrell do justice to the genius of Ellington. The band, under the musical direction of Ashton Moore, is exceptional, blending seamlessly with the performers to create a soundscape that is both soulful and infectious. The choreography by Kenrick H2O Sandy brings a contemporary edge to the production, infusing the stage with dynamic movement that complements the rhythms of the jazz numbers, lively numbers like "It Don’t Mean a Thing" and "Hit Me With a Hot Note" seamlessly fitting the 1940s Harlem setting.
The cast of Play On! delivers stellar performances across the board, with Tsemaye Bob-Egbe’s portrayal of Vy-man standing out for both its emotional depth and comic timing. Bob-Egbe is convincing as both the determined female songwriter and her male alter-ego, Vy-man, navigating the dual roles with grace and charm. Her chemistry with Earl Gregory’s Duke, though complicated by the disguise, brings a sense of warmth and longing to their scenes together. Gregory, as The Duke, conveys the frustration of a creative mind battling personal demons, while his smooth vocals capture the essence of Ellington’s music.
Koko Alexandra shines as Lady Liv, the glamorous yet vulnerable nightclub singer. Her powerful vocal performance, particularly in numbers like "I Ain’t Got Nothin’ But the Blues," leaves a lasting impression. Cameron Bernard Jones as Rev brings an unexpected twist to the traditional Malvolio character, with his yellow zoot suit moment being a comedic highlight. Llewellyn Jamal’s Jester adds humour and charisma, serving as both a guide for the audience and a key player in the unfolding chaos. The supporting cast, including Tanya Edwards as Miss Mary and Lifford Shillingford as Sweets, provide strong comedic and musical moments, adding layers to the show’s ensemble energy.
Play On! is a high-spirited, toe-tapping delight that successfully fuses Shakespearean comedy with the irresistible rhythms of Duke Ellington’s jazz. Under Michael Buffong’s expert direction, the production exudes joy, with a cast and creative team that bring passion and energy to every scene. While the plot occasionally takes a back seat to the musical numbers, the show remains a thoroughly entertaining experience, thanks to its vibrant performances and impressive choreography. For fans of Shakespeare, jazz, or simply a great night out at the theatre, Play On! offers a refreshing take on a classic tale, wrapped in the irresistible sounds and style of 1940s Harlem. A richly deserved four stars.
Play On! is at Liverpool Playhouse until Saturday 19th October 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Ellie Kurttz
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review
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