Imitation of Life tickets
About Imitation of Life
See this soulful musical adapted from the bestselling novel and written by Lynn Nottage and John Legend. Tony Award nominee Whitney White directs Imitation of Life the musical, coming to The Shed this fall for a limited run only. A timeless story with an all-star creative team, Imitation of Life off Broadway promises to be a headliner of a theatrical event.
Fannie Hurst's novel Imitation of Life follows two mothers, both single, one white and one Black. As the world around them changes in the 1920s and 30s, in Atlantic City and New York, each is trying to make a better life for their daughters who look for love and success. However, the story is told at a time when race and class keep people apart, and the American Dream always seems just out of reach. A gorgeous story brought to the stage with a beautiful score, Imitation of Life asks what we will sacrifice for, and what we will leave future generations.
Exploring social themes of race, economics, and womanhood, Imitation of Life is a sophisticated story now being adapted into a musical by A-list writers. Lynn Nottage, known for her works that address women's issues, is the only woman to have received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama twice, and John Legend is a legend unto himself: he is an EGOT winner, having collected trophies for the Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards. The two team up with a theatre veteran, director Liesl Tommy, to share this breathtaking story of love and loss.
Run time
2hr 40min. Incl. intermission.
Venue
Categories
Age
All Ages.
Start date
November 21st, 2026
End date
January 3rd, 2027
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Imitation of Life cast and creative team
By: Lynn Nottage, based on the novel by Fannie Hurst
Songs by: John Legend
Director: Whitney White
Choreography: Baye & Asa
Producer: The Shed and National Black Theatre
Cast list: Adrienne Warren (as Delilah), Jessica Vosk (as Bea), Michael Luwoye (as Elroy), Charlie Thurston (as Archie), Aleyse Shannon (as Adult Peola), Scarlett London Diviney (as Young Peola), and Lily Gilliam (as Young Jessie)
Sets: Chloe Lamford
Costumes: Qween Jean
Lighting: Natasha Katz
Sound: Gareth Owen
Other info: Music supervision by Brandon Michael Nase, music direction by Ben Covello, orchestrations by Bryan Carter and Charlie Rosen
More information about Imitation of Life
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Show schedule
| Day of week | Matinee | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | - | 7:30 PM |
| Tuesday | - | 7:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 1:00 PM | - |
| Thursday | - | - |
| Friday | - | 7:30 PM |
| Saturday | 1:00 PM | 7:30 PM |
| Sunday | - | - |
Frequently asked questions
What is Imitation of Life about?
Based on the bestseller, Imitation of Life is the stirring musical about two mothers and their daughters seeking a better life in the 1920s and 30s.
How long is Imitation of Life?
The running time of Imitation of Life is 2hr 40min. Incl. intermission.
Where is Imitation of Life playing?
Imitation of Life is playing at The Shed. The theatre is located at 545 West 30th Street, New York, 10001.
How much do tickets cost for Imitation of Life?
Tickets for Imitation of Life start at $90.
What's the age recommendation for Imitation of Life?
The recommended age for Imitation of Life is All Ages..
How do you book tickets for Imitation of Life?
Book tickets for Imitation of Life on New York Theatre Guide.
Is Imitation of Life on Broadway or Off-Broadway?
Imitation of Life is playing Off Broadway.
How long is Imitation of Life running?
Imitation of Life currently has tickets available through 3 January 2027. Check calendar for availability.
Who is in the cast of Imitation of Life?
The cast of Imitation of Life includes Adrienne Warren (as Delilah), Jessica Vosk (as Bea), Michael Luwoye (as Elroy), Charlie Thurston (as Archie), Aleyse Shannon (as Adult Peola), Scarlett London Diviney (as Young Peola), and Lily Gilliam (as Young Jessie).
Who directed Imitation of Life?
Imitation of Life is directed by Whitney White.
Who wrote the music and lyrics for Imitation of Life?
The music and lyrics for Imitation of Life were written by John Legend.
Who wrote Imitation of Life?
Imitation of Life was written by Lynn Nottage, based on the novel by Fannie Hurst.
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