Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

Whoopi Goldberg and Charles S. Dutton star in a revival of August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, directed by Marion McClinton. Set in a recording studio in Chicago in 1927, the play focuses on singer Ma Rainey (Goldberg) as she and her band record a few songs. Levee (Dutton), the band’s talented and tempermental trumpet player, aspires to someday move beyond his role as Ma Rainey’s backup and have his own band. The play follows the band’s attempts to successfully complete the recording session despite interpersonal conflicts within the band, Ma Rainey’s trouble with the law, and power struggles between Ma and the record company.

Rush tickets are available at the box office when it opens on the day of the performance. Tickets are $20.00 (plus $1.25 facilities fee), cash only, limit 2 per customer.