Recently I was the guest of Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta through Brave PR for the opening night of Memphis. I met my cousin, Melissa, in the city for an early dinner then we headed to the fabulous Fox Theatre for the show.
I have to admit, that even though I had read what a smash hit this show is, I had my doubts. Memphis is about a white DJ who falls in love with rock & roll and a black singer in the deep south in the late 1950s. How in the world could they make a musical based on such a serious subject? Boy, was I wrong!! Although they do not gloss over the ugliness of racial bias from both sides of the issue, it shines a light on the fact that our common feelings and emotions are much greater than our differences.
Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves – filled with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock 'n' roll. Winner of four 2010 Tony Awards including Best Musical, MEMPHIS features a Tony-winning original score with music by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan. Directing is Tony nominee Christopher Ashley (Xanadu), and choreography is by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys).
If I had to pick just one word to describe Memphis, it would be joyful. If I could pick several, they would be: hilarious, unbelievably high energy, blow-your-socks-off singing and make-you-want-to-jump-up-out-of-your-seat and dance!! I love ALL musicals, but Memphis just became one of my favorites!
I also learned a crucial lesson. We are blessed in Atlanta with three different Broadway show series: Broadway in America, Theater of the Stars and the Gas South Broadway Series. Through these, we have access to the very best Broadway has to offer. We also have two beautiful venues, the Fox Theatre and Cobb Energy Center. Both of these are filled with ambiance and wonderful acoustics. I literally have been seated in the last row of the balcony at the Fox and thoroughly enjoyed the show. So, the lesson is, GO! Even if you are not familiar with the play, even if it doesn't sound like you would like it, even if no one else you know is going ... just pick one and GO. The worse seat in the house is better than on your sofa watching TV! Get a babysitter, find some discounted tickets online, have a date night with your sweetie, just GO!! I promise you will be glad you did.
