Broadway in Chicago adds a gem to its remarkable lineup with “A Wonderful World.”
As one of the largest touring venues in the country, a Broadway show is always a captivating experience.
“I see trees of green, red roses too. I see them bloom for me and you. And I think to myself, What a wonderful world.” – “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong, a true legend, has forever left his mark on the world of music.
His unmistakable voice and remarkable skills as a trumpeter and vocalist could brighten the darkest rooms and uplift the lowest moods. With a career spanning over five decades, Armstrong’s unique talents made jazz and rhythm and blues more accessible and beloved by many.
Timeless classics like “What A Wonderful World,” “When You’re Smiling,” “Nobody Knows The Trouble I’ve Seen,” and “When the Saints Go Marching In” are just a few of his masterpieces.
Though Armstrong may no longer physically be with us, his contributions to the world of jazz and music, in general, continue to resonate.
And now, you can experience the magic of “A Wonderful World” through Broadway in Chicago at the Cadillac Palace Theatre through Oct. 29.
This extraordinary production, adapted from the book written by Aurin Squire, is choreographed by Rickey Tripp (with Specialty Tap Choreography by DeWitt Fleming, Jr.) and directed by Christopher Renshaw.
The musical arrangements by Annatasia Victory and Micheal O. Mitchell contribute to the musical excellence of the production. The production is brought to life by producers Thomas E. Rodgers, Jr., Renee Rodgers, Andrew Delaplaine, Liz Curtis and Martian Entertainment (Carl D. White and Gregory Rae), with the distinguished Tony Award nominee Vanessa Williams on the producing team.
“A Wonderful World” is a musical that delves into the life and loves of Louis Armstrong and is presented through the eyes of Armstrong’s four wives.
The talented cast includes James Monroe Iglehart as Louis Armstrong, Ta’Rea Campbell as Lucille Wilson, Jennie Harney-Fleming as Lil Hardin, Brennyn Lark as Alpha Smith and Khalifa White as Daisy Parker.
The Chicago Defender had the privilege of sitting down with one of the show’s stars, DeWitt Fleming, Jr., to learn about his journey to this pivotal role.
DeWitt’s path to success began as a drummer with a unique ability to find the rhythm in any piece of music. However, during his time at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C., he discovered his love for acting and tap dancing.
These art forms perfectly complemented his passion for jazz. DeWitt continued his education by studying acting at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City, an experience that opened doors and honed his skills.
Today, Mr. Fleming is celebrated as a renowned tap dancer with a remarkable career that includes touring with Grammy award-winning singer Alicia Keys, performing with “Cirque du Soleil,” appearing on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” featuring in National Black Theater Festival’s Jelly’s Last Jam as Jelly, and sharing the stage with artists like Bobby McFerrin and Wynton Marsalis, among many others.
Mr. Fleming’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication and love for tap dance, culminating in his extraordinary role in “A Wonderful World.”
Step behind the scenes and discover more about “A Wonderful World” through the lens of Mr. Fleming while gaining insights into his journey to success.
For ticket information, visit broadwayinchicago.com/show/a-wonderful-world
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