Don’t Shed A Tear

Written by Dawn Mitchell and directed by Jackie Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Black Ensemble Theater Company, Don’t Shed A Tear (The Story of Billie Holiday) chronicles the traumatic life of the jazz legend. They called her “Lady Day” and she attained legendary status as the most influential female singer in Jazz history. This world premiere musical details the traumatic life of the great singer, but also highlights her strengths and attributes as a phenomenal and enduring human being. Vickie Stokes stars as Billie Holiday and brings to life some of her greatest music including “God Bless The Child,” “Strange Fruit” and “Good Morning Heartache.”