Get Ready for Smokey Joe's Cafe

A preview of the new off-Broadway revival of Smokey Joe's Cafe was held at Feinstein's/54 Below on Wednesday, June 27. Directed and choreographed by Joshua Bergasse, the musical begins performances at New York City's Stage 42 on July 6, ahead of a July 22 opening night. It ran in June at Maine's Ogunquit Playhouse.

The nine-member ensemble features Dwayne Cooper (Motown), Emma Degerstedt (Desperate Measures), John Edwards (Jersey Boys), Dionne D. Figgins (Hot Feet), Nicole Vanessa Ortiz (Spamilton), Kyle Taylor Parker (Kinky Boots), Jelani Remy (The Lion King), Max Sangerman (Blue Man Group), and Alysha Umphress (On the Town).

With soulful ballads rooted in blues, legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller's songs are described as illuminating the wide range of the human experience, celebrating the humor, passion, and heartbreak that infuse everyday lives. Smokey Joe's Cafe features more than 30 classic songs including "Stand by Me," "I'm a Woman," "Hound Dog," "Fools Fall in Love," and more. The show was co-conceived by Stephen Helper and Jack Viertel.

Smokey Joe's Cafe features scenic design by Beowulf Boritt, costume design by Alejo Vietti, lighting design by Jeff Croiter, sound design by Peter Fitzgerald, original vocal arrangements by Chapman Roberts, and orchestrations by Steve Margoshes and Sonny Paladino.