Black Ensemble Theater Extends THE JACKIE WILSON STORY Through March 18

Black Ensemble Theater has extended the its production The Jackie Wilson Story, written, produced and directed by Black Ensemble Theater Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor. All cast members are continuing in their roles, including Kelvin Roston Jr., Dawn Bless, RaShawn Thompson, Melanie McCullough, Trinity Murdock, Carrie, Lawrence Williams, Lyle Miller, Rueben Echols and Robin Beamen. The Jackie Wilson Story launched Black Ensemble Theater's 2011-2012 Legendary Season of Rhythm & Blues and has been extended through March 18, 2012.  

The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000. The national tour was launched in 2002 and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at the historical New York City landmark. The production, which chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer, is slightly different than the original version, but still includes many of Wilson's hits such as (Your Love Keeps Liftin' Me) Higher & Higher, To Be Loved, Danny Boy and Doggin' Me Around. This time, audiences will also be treated to Frankie Lymons' Goodie Goodie and the Crystals He's A Rebel. 

"The Jackie Wilson Story is the inaugural production of our beautiful new home on Chicago's north side, and we couldn't be more thrilled with the reaction the show, and the facility, have received," Taylor said. "The production continues to sell beyond expectation as we welcome both new and familiar audiences to celebrate the national landmark that is the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center."

Buy tickets online at www.ticketmaster.com or call (773) 769-4451. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org.