New York Voices's Rafael Pi Roman catches up with Stew, author and lyricist of the Tony-moninated musical "Passing Strange." They discuss the extent to which the show is autobiographical, the themes of race and authenticity, and what it's been like for an underground rock musician to have suddenly become a Broadway star. This episode of the award-winning public affairs series premieres Tuesday, June 10 at 10:30 p.m.
Originally staged at the Public Theater, "
Passing Strange" has been making its run at the Belasco Theater on Broadway since February. The hit musical tells the story of a young African-American song-writer trying to find his place in life. Stew narrates the highs and lows of his musical career, taking audience members from his birthplace of Los Angeles to the clubs of Berlin.
Also featured on this week's
New York Voices are four artists from the MTA's Music Under New York Program (MUNY), including Natalie Paruz, also known as the "Saw Lady" and "The Ebony Hillbillies," one of the last black stings bands in America. The MTA Arts for Transit currently manages over 100 performers, ranging from jazz ensembles to opera singers to Latin guitarists. With over 125 performances a week at 25 locations throughout the MTA system, MUNY performers add a dose of musical flair to the city's excitement and chaos.
Photo Credit Walter McBride/Retna Ltd.
