The Black Dress Traveler

Fierce, Funky & Fun: FELA on Broadway

Am I the last person in New York to see FELA on Broadway? Well, last night I finally made it to this VERY original TONY nominated production (11 nominations, including Best Musical). I can't think of any other Broadway show that I've attended where the performers interact with the audience in so many different ways. Not only do the dancers shimmy through the aisles but the audience is asked to get up and shake it and even sing along. Ya ya!

Set in Lagos, Nigeria in the 1970's, the play is based on the life of Afrobeat music pioneer Fela Kuti. More than a musician, Fela was an outspoken critic of government corruption and music was his weapon. He was also a charismatic ladies man and Fela's bevy of dancing beauties is portrayed on stage by a gorgeous ensemble of incredible performers. I won't give away too many details but if you want to experience a new type of theatrical experience, consider Fela for a high energy and thought provoking option.

To save some money, we purchased tickets on www.BroadwayBox.com and paid about $75 for an orchestra seat. Patti LaBelle joins the cast soon so I suggest getting tickets early - you know tons of fans will turn out to hear Miss Diva!

Win 2 Tickets to the Hit Broadway Musical MEMPHIS!

Congratulations to winner Kathryn W.!

Don't miss your chance to see the musical that has been called "the biggest hit on Broadway this year or any other year.” (WOR Radio.) Enter for your chance to win 2 tickets to see a January 2010 performance of the hit Broadway musical MEMPHIS! (The winner will be mailed a voucher and must follow the instructions in order to redeem the prize.) Contest ends on Friday, Dec. 11 at 5:00 pm (EST).

From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new Broadway musical with a brand-new story to tell. Get ready to rock, because MEMPHIS is blowing the roof off of Broadway! The plot - She's a black singer whose career is on the rise, but who can't break out of segregated clubs. He's a white radio DJ whose love of music transcends race lines and airwaves. When the two collaborate, her soulful music reaches radio audiences everywhere, and the Golden Era of early rock 'n' roll takes flight. But as things start to heat up, whether the world is really ready for their music - or their love - is put to the test. A thrilling theatrical event that combines Broadway splendor with the roots of rock.