Origin Theatrical

 

SOPHISTICATED LADIES

The musical legacy of The Duke is celebrated in this stylish and brassy retrospective that has taken audiences and critics alike by storm throughout the world. Act I takes us from his early days at The Cotton Club through his widening acceptance abroad, while Act II explores the private man as captured in his music. It's a high-stepping salute inspired by the glamorous nightlife and sensuous highlife of a man who lived to love.

Cast Requirements: PRINCIPALS 3 Women 4 Men ENSEMBLE Singing-dancing ensemble COMMENTS The cast should be racially mixed, representing any and all who rock to the rhythm of The Duke. CHARACTERS Gregory - the raconteur Judith - the danseuse Gregg - the jazzbo Phyllis - the chanteuse Hinton - the danseur Terri - the soubrette P.J. - the hipster Ensemble

Set Requirements: SOPHISTICATED LADIES requires a flexible unit set that can suggest various locales in the life of Duke Ellington.

Genre / Style: Musical

Rehearsal / Orchestral Material: Rehearsal Set (24 Books,1 Logo) 20 Libretto-Vocal Books; 2 PIANO-CONDUCTOR ACT I & II (CONDUCTOR and PIANO); 1 Logo; Orchestra Package (14 Books) 2 PIANO-CONDUCTOR ACT I & II (CONDUCTOR and PIANO); 1 REED I (Clarinet, Alto Sax); 1 REED II (Clarinet, Tenor Sax); 1 REED III (Clarinet, Baritone Sax); 1 TRUMPET I (Doubles Flugelhorn); 1 TRUMPET II (Doubles Flugelhorn); 1 TRUMPET III (Doubles Flugelhorn); 1 TROMBONE I; 1 DRUMS (Trap Set); 1 PERCUSSION; 1 BASS; Libretto/Vocal Books 10 pack: 10 Libretto-Vocal Books.

Musical Numbers: Music Is A Woman, The Mooch, Hit Me With A Hot Note and Watch Me Bounce, It Don't Mean A Thing, Take The A Train, Satin Doll, Mood Indigo, Sophisticated Lady, In A Sentimental Mood, Caravan, Drop Me Off In Harlem, Love You Madly....

Music by Duke Ellington
Concept by Donald McKayle
Based on the music of Duke Ellington
Music and Dance Arrangements by Lloyd Mayers
Vocal Arrangments by Malcolm Dodds and Lloyd Mayers

1981 Tony Awards
•8 Nominations including Best Musical

"Pure musical gold... an Ellington celebration that just won't quit... rides high on affection, skill and stunning magic... Ellington would be pleased, indeed, beside himself!"
The New York Times

"I loved it madly! ...the numbers send chills up your spine... glitter and glamour and stomp your feet songs."
ABC-TV