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First Look at the York Theatre's Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope

Musicals in Mufti kicks off with Micki Grant’s musical revue.

The York Theatre Company is now in performances of its Musicals in Mufti Series season opener, Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope.

The company of Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope.
The company of Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope.
(© Ben Strothmann)

Conceived by Vinnette Carroll and directed by Leslie Dockery, Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope is described as a "musical entertainment," featuring a book, music, and lyrics by Micki Grant. The eight-member cast features Jelani Alladin (Ragtime), Darilyn Castillo (It Ain't Nothin but the Blues), Doug Eskew (The Color Purple), Tina Fabrique (Ragtime), Marva Hicks (Motown), Devin L. Roberts (The Lion King), Ruan Ruffin (The Good Wife), and Debra Walton (Storyville).

Tina Fabrique in performance at the York Theatre Company.
Tina Fabrique in performance at the York Theatre Company.
(© Ben Strothmann)

Offering a mixture of gospel, jazz, funk, soul, calypso, and soft rock, the show illuminates the African-American experience with vibrant song and dance. William Foster McDaniel will lend musical direction.

The musical premiered on Broadway in 1972 and ran for over two years. The production earned four Tony nominations for Best Book, Best Original Score, Best Direction, and Best Musical. The show also won Grant a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.

Performances are set to run through March 6 at the York Theatre Company at Saint Peter’s.

Devin L. Roberts performing a dance number in Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope.
Devin L. Roberts performing a dance number in Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope.
(© Ben Strothmann)

For tickets and more information, click here.