Fela extends its run by two weeks and will now play through to 4 Oct
Ruth & Stephen Hendel and Roy Gabay announced today that the world premiere of Fela!, a new musical based on the life of groundbreaking African composer, performer and activist Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has extended its run by two weeks.
The musical opened at 37 Arts on 4 Sep 2008, following previews from 29 Jul 2008, for a limited run that was originally scheduled to close on 21 Sep 2008, but will now play through to 4 Oct 2008.
Directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Bill T. Jones (Spring Awakening) with a book by Jim Lewis and Bill T. Jones, Fela! features Kuti�s music performed live onstage by Antibalas and other members of the New York Afrobeat community.
Fela!: About the extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. Using his pioneering music (a blend of jazz, funk and African rhythm and harmonies), Fela! explores Kuti's controversial life as artist, political activist and revolutionary musician.The show is a hybrid of concert, dance and musical theater.
The musical features Sahr Ngaujah (Fela Kuti), Abena Koomsons (mother), Anne Andre, Corey Baker, Calvin C. Booker, Lauren Deveaux, Nicole Chantal DeWeever, Rujeko Dumbutshena, Aimee Graham, Talu Green, Karma Mayet Johnson, Ismael Kouyate, Maia McKinney, Marcus Phillips, Daniel Soto, Sparlha Swa, Jill M. Vallery and Iris Wilson.
The creative team includes Marina Draghici (sets & costumes), Rob Wierzel (lighting) and Rob Kaplowitz (sound).
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