Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

An American masterpiece, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is an incredibly powerful depiction of rage, racism, and exploitation set in 1927 Chicago during a recording session at a white-owned studio with the legendary singer—inspired by real-life Mother of the Blues Gertrude “Ma” Rainey. Tony Award® winner Phylicia Rashad directs this groundbreaking play from Wilson’s celebrated Cycle chronicling the African-American experience of the 20th century.