Music fans won't go wrong in purchasing a ticket to Black Ensemble Theater's latest production "From Doo Wop to Hip Hop."
The show, written and directed by Jackie Taylor, BET's founder and associate director Rueben Echoles, is a joyous walk down a varied musical path starring a collection of eclectic characters.
Set in a multi-racial neighborhood called Unison Hills, where young and old music industry folk reside, the musical takes a look at the relationships not only between neighbors but between family members.
This is a place where teens and seniors, brothers and sisters, and husbands and wives interact with one another on a musical playing field. It showcases not only the struggles people have in getting along but also places a focus on how great life can be when people are willing to work out their problems together.
The playlist includes tunes from stellar groups such as The Shirelles and The Platters to singers such as Amy Winehouse and rappers Naughty by Nature and The SugarHill Gang.
Tunes such as "You Don't Own Me," "I Only Have Eyes For You," "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," "16 Candles," "Hip-Hop Hooray," "Rapper's Delight" and more get tackled in fresh ways by the talented cast.
A particular standout performance is Megan Murphy's emotional delivery of "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man."
Also starring in the show are David Simmons, Lawrence Williams, Gary native Lisa Beasley, Monty Montgomery, Christopher Straw, Dwight Neal, Matthew Payne, Kelvin Roston Jr., Brandon Holmes, Corey Wright, Cynthia Carter, Erin O'Shea, John Keating, Danielle Davis, and Marquicia Jordan.
"From Doo Wop to Hip Hop," is an update of BET founder Jackie Taylor's hit "Doo Wop Shoo Bop." Since this new season at the theater takes on the theme "Treasures and Tributes," to highlight this show now was appropriate.
"From Doo Wop to Hip Hop" runs through April 14 at Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark St., Chicago. Tickets are $55 for Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday (afternoon) shows and $65 for Fridays, Saturday evening and Sunday matinees. Call (773) 769-4451.
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