The story is of Kuti's life as a musician, performer, and political activist. Set in the 1970s, the theatre is transformed into Fela's Lagos nightclub, known as the Shrine. FELA! features many of Kuti's songs and Afrobeat music to tell the story of his life. He was a Nigerian musician and composer of Afrobeat music. In addition to being a very influential musician, he was also a political activist for human rights.
FELA! is directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Bill T. Jones. FELA! was written by Jim Lewis and Bill T. Jones. The lyrics and music are by Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. The producers of the new Broadway show are "Jay-Z" Carter, Will Smith, and Jada Pinkett Smith.
Fela, played by Sahr Ngaujah and also Mambo (matinees), comes on stage and describes how he left Nigeria to go to London for college. He then changed his focus to music and was inspired by the Black Power political movement in the United States. He then returns home to the controlling Nigerian military regime.
The upbeat music and energy of the performers will have you wanting to get up and dance in the aisles! The audience definitely gets into the mood and feeling of being in the Lagos nightclub.
Check the schedule & buy your tickets to:
FELA! at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre!
Check the schedule & buy your tickets to:
FELA! at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre!
FELA! is playing at the Eugene O'Neil Theatre in New York. The show is for everyone over the age of four, although children up to the age of 12 might have a difficult time understanding what is happening, but they will definitely get into the music!
FELA! performances are everyday except Monday. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday have matinees. Evening shows are Tuesday through Saturday. Don't miss your chance to experience FELA! in person.