Fela!, directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Bill T. Jones, welcomes audiences into the extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Using his pioneering music (a blend of jazz, funk and African rhythm and harmonies), the musical explores Kuti's controversial life as artist, political activist and revolutionary musician.
Fela! features a multi-cultural cast led by Sahr Ngaujah (recipient of an Obie Award for his performance in the title role Off- Broadway) and Kevin Mambo (MTC’s Ruined), alternating in the role of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Tony Award-winner Lillias White plays Funmilayo Ransome Kuti (Fela’s mother) and Saycon Sengbloh (Hair) plays Sandra, Kuti’s love interest.
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Sahr Ngaujah, who earned critical acclaim and numerous award nominations for originating the title role in Fela! Off-Broadway, Broadway, and the West End, has an extensive career in theater, film, and television, and holds a Masters of Theatre from DasArts in the Netherlands. more...
Jeffrey Page, an Emmy Award-nominated director and choreographer, was a member of the original, award-winning Broadway cast of Fela!, bringing his extensive expertise and creative vision to the celebrated production. more...
Saycon Sengbloh, who has an impressive Broadway resume including her role in "Fela!," gained critical acclaim for her performance in "Eclipsed," which made history as the first play with an all-black and female creative cast and team to premiere on Broadway. more...
Lillias White, a Tony Award nominee for her role in Fela!, has had an illustrious career on Broadway, including standout performances in Dreamgirls, Cats, and more recently as Matron "Mama" Morton in Chicago. more...
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J.L. Williams, a Los Angeles native and seasoned performer, was an Original Broadway Cast Member in the Tony Award-winning musical "FELA!" and participated in a special performance of the show in Lagos, Nigeria in 2011. more...
Awards and Nominations
2009 Drama Desk Awards
Outstanding Actor in a Musical: Sahr Ngaujah was nominated but did not win.
Production Team
Marina Draghici Costume Designer
Scenic Designer
Aaron Johnson Orchestrator
Musical Director
Bill T. Jones Choreographer
Director
Cookie Jordan Hair and Wig Designer
Make-Up Designer
Robert Kaplowitz Sound Designer
Peter Nigrini Projection Designer
Robert Wierzel Lighting Designer
Videos