John Legend-Lynn Nottage Musical Imitation of Life to Debut in September

The Shed has announced dates for the forthcoming musical Imitation of Life, which will begin preview performances on September 9, for a strictly limited engagement through October 4 at the Shed.

A co-production of National Black Theatre, Imitation of Life is based on Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel about two single mothers, one Black and one white, building a shared life with their daughters in a society deeply divided by race and class. The story was adapted for film in 1934 and 1959.

The stage musical will feature a book by two-time Pulitzer winner Lynn Nottage (MJ), with music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner John Legend. Liesl Tommy (Eclipsed) directs. Casting will be announced at a later date.

Tickets for Imitation of Life go on sale to the public on Friday, May 15, 2026. The Shed member presale begins on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The Mastercard cardholder presale begins Wednesday, May 13, 2026. For tickets and pre-sale access for Shed members and Mastercard cardholders, visit theshed.org/imitationoflife.