A woman named Vy moves to Harlem to become a songwriter. Her uncle convinces her to pretend to be a man because women aren’t accepted as writers. She agrees and he introduces her to Duke Ellington, to whom Vy is instantly attracted to. Duke hires her to help him write songs to win over Lady Liv. While delivering these songs, Lady Liv is attracted to Vy. It’s quite the love triangle!

It’s a very fun and classy musical full of love mishaps. The music by Duke Ellington is expertly woven into the story.

Krystal Joy Brown is great as Lady Liv, the star of The Cotton Club. Alan H Green is excellent as her assistant, who has a big crush on her. James Harkness is slick as Vy’s uncle, who is full of bad advice. Hailee Kaleem Wright is solid as Vy, who goes by Vyman when dressed as a man. James Earl Jones II (Memphis) is hilarious as the charming Sweets. Kaylah Janssen, Alanna Lovely, and Edred Utomi are solid as well. 

Overall, it’s a great show that makes for a fantastic night out! 

Cost of a ticket: $94 (Lower Gallery)

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Good Value

Rating Scale: Exceptional > Good Value > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Get tickets now for Play On! through October 18th. 

Quinn Delaney