Revival of ‘Play On!’ Celebrates Black Excellence in Chicago

Sheldon Epps, a veteran American director, had a captivating idea three decades ago. He wanted to combine Duke Ellington’s music with the narrative of Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’ in 1930s Harlem. Epps aimed to showcase Black excellence, artistry, and joy in this vibrant setting.

Epps, at that time, served as the associate artistic director at San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre. This venue was where ‘Play On!’ first premiered in 1996. It later transitioned to Broadway with cast members such as Tonya Pinkins and André De Shields. For the musical’s book, Epps collaborated with Cheryl L. West, known for works like ‘Holiday Heart’. Although ‘Play On!’ received positive reviews, it struggled to capture a lasting audience, resulting in a brief Broadway presence.

In 1998, Epps connected with Robert Falls, artistic director of Goodman Theatre, to stage ‘Play On!’ in Chicago. Falls was captivated by the cast recording after the Broadway show had ended. Tonya Pinkins and André De Shields returned to Chicago for this production, joined by newcomer Paul Oakley Stovall. Chicago’s Tribune critic Richard Christiansen acclaimed the show as a ‘summer-long smash’, sparking renewed interest.

The momentum for ‘Play On!’ waned as Epps embarked on a successful 20-year tenure at Pasadena Playhouse, ending in 2017. Now, the musical returns to Chicago Shakespeare Theater, with Epps directing once more. The revamped production features a 16-member cast, including local talent, accompanied by a six-piece live band performing Ellington’s hits.

The new Chicago version follows a successful tour in the United Kingdom. Directed by Michael Buffong, the tour generated interest across the Atlantic. The collaboration with Barbara Gaines, former artistic director of Chicago Shakespeare, further supported its revival. Gaines viewed the musical as embodying love, joy, and magnificent music.

Epps has intensified the Shakespearean elements for the current performance, incorporating choreography by Edgar Godineaux. Despite his thriving theater and television career, Epps continues to select projects that resonate with his passion for storytelling.

Recently, Epps worked on the musical ‘Personality: The Lloyd Price Musical’ in Chicago, dedicated to Lloyd Price’s legacy. This production aimed for Broadway amidst the industry’s recovery from the pandemic.

Epps expressed his love for working in Chicago, emphasizing that passion drives his involvement. All these years later, ‘Play On!’ remains a project close to his heart.

‘Play On!’ runs from September 11 to October 18 at Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Courtyard Theater on Navy Pier. Further details are available at chicagoshakes.com.