The Jackie Wilson Story

Following an eight-city National Tour, The Jackie Wilson Story lands at Harlem’s famed Apollo Theater for a limited engagement. Featuring Chester Gregory II who originated the title role, the show also features Tony Award-winner and Grammy nominated stage and recording star Melba Moore, who portrays Jackie’s mother. This high-energy musical showcasing the rise and fall of legendary performer Jackie Wilson features an 11- member ensemble and seven musicians, and showcases over 25 songs of the era, including such Wilson hits as “Lonely Teardrops,” “(Your Love Keeps Liftin’ Me) Higher & Higher,” “To Be Loved” and
“Doggin’ Me Around.” The musical chronicles the life of Jackie Wilson – an entertainer admired and emulated by Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson — from his first hit song, the Berry Gordy/Billy Davis composed “Reet Petite” in 1957,
to his ultimate tragic death in 1984.

The Jackie Wilson Story was written, produced and directed by Jackie Taylor, the founder and executive director of the Black Ensemble Theater. The production was choreographed by Ms. Taylor and Eva D, with musical
direction by Jimmy Tillman, musical arrangements by George Paco Patterson and original music by Ms. Taylor.