**** Recommended It’s Black Ensemble Theatre’s 50th anniversary season and their reboot of their 2000 hit, The Jackie Wilson Story, written by founder Jackie Taylor, is a must-see in my book. Jaitee Thomas does a terrific job as Jackie Wilson and the back-up ensemble is phenomenal. In fact, my friend Helen said the show was absolutely perfect! 4 BIG Spotlights
Jackie Wilson was a true phenom of the music industry, a singer with an amazing vocal range who successfully transitioned from rhythm & blues and soul. Early in his career he recorded Danny Boy for Dee Gee Records. After a short stint singing with Billy Ward and his Dominoes, he launched his solo career. His dynamic style earned him the title, Mr. Excitement, and the admiration of Elvis Presley.
Jaitee Thomas as Jackie Wilson. Photo by Aaron Reese Boseman
While his professional life was ever more successful, his personal life was chaotic, starting with his ‘shotgun’ wedding to his wife, Freda, with whom he had four children. She eventually divorced him because of his constant infidelities. He fathered another son with his second wife, and several illegitimate children with multiple women.
Although he was very successful, Wilson never had any money. His contract with Brunswick meant they managed his money, most of which they embezzled. He was set to testify against them when he had a heart attack onstage. He spent the rest of his life in a comatose state. Elvis Presley paid all of his hospital bills until he died. Ironically, Brunswick never paid him what they owed, instead he died owing them and the IRs money.
Jaitee Thomas & the cast of The Jackie Wilson Story. Photo by Aaron Reese Boseman
Jackie Wilson hits included in this show: Little Bitty Pretty One, He’s a Rebel, Tweedle Dee, To Be Loved, Lonely Teardrops, (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher and many more.
I think I’ve seen all of the cast members in previous productions at Black Ensemble, so I can say with some authority that they are some of the most talented people in Chicago!
Rhonda Preston plays his mother, Eliza Mae Wilson, Britt Edwards plays his wife, Freda, and Destin Warner plays his best friend and manager, BB. Solomon Langley plays Sam Cooke, Raeven Carrol plays LaVern Baker. By the way, cast members who play individual parts also sing/dance with the ensemble: Vincent Jordan, Dennis Dent, Michaela Dukes and Ben Woods.
Britt Edwards, Michaela Dukes & Raevon Caroll. Photo by Aaron Reese Boseman
As I’ve said before, the music is always outstanding at Black Ensemble Theatre. The wonderful musicians include Robert Reddrick (Musical Director/Drums), Oscar Brown Jr. (Guitar), Mark Allen Felton (Saxophone), Walter Harrington (Bass), Bill McFarland (Trombone), Adam Sherrod (Keys) and Corey Wilkes (Trumpet)
The Jackie Wilson Story runs through April 26th at Black Ensemble Theatre Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street, Chicago. Valet parking $13 (cash only) is available. Running time is just under two hours with an intermission. Performances: Fridays at 8:00 pm, Saturdays at 3:00 & 8:00 pm, and Sundays at 3:00 pm. Tickets are $69 (fees included). FYI (773) 769-4451 or www.blackensemble.org