Recap: FELA! on Broadway
AllThatsFab was fortunate enough to receive an invite to a preview of Fela! on Broadway earier this month! For those that don't know, Fela! is a new musical on Broadway that is about the life and times of Fela Kuti, a legendary, but controversial Nigerian singer/entertainer and aspiring politician. Celebrities such as Jay-Z, Questlove of The Roots and Will & Jada Smith have taken a liking to this play, which in turn has created additional exposure for it in the news, etc.
If you're not really familiar with Fela Kuti, you may not know what to expect from a production such as this. (We sure didn't.) However, you won't be disappointed once the play starts. It definitely opens up with a BANG and immediately draws you in with the incredible dancing and music as well as the colorful costumes. One thing about Fela! that stands out from other plays on Broadway is that it is somewhat like a party at Santos Party House, because the actors constantly involve the audience by jumping and dancing off the stage and encouraging audience participation. (One of the most entertaining parts must have been watching all of the elderly people break it down and shake their hips to the music after being encouraged by the star of the show). As a member of the audience, you really feel like you're at a dance party!
Fela! was not just about dancing, music and having a good time though, as the play not only captured the struggles of the Nigerian people at the time, but also addressed the inner demons that Fela faced as a human being as well. It was a great mix of drama, high energy, and great music! While it did slow down a bit during the 2nd act, this act also included "Rain", hands down one of the best dance numbers of the night! (If you go, be on the look out for that number. It was amazing!)
All in all, Fela! is a must-see and worth all of the hype. You will leave the theatre energized and like you were almost a part of the production. Additionally, it was a bit amazing to have the cast members come out and dance in the audience during the curtain call. That's something you don't see everyday, and it was appreciated.
If you want to check out Fela! (It would make a great outing for date night or during the holidays) CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.
Fela! was not just about dancing, music and having a good time though, as the play not only captured the struggles of the Nigerian people at the time, but also addressed the inner demons that Fela faced as a human being as well. It was a great mix of drama, high energy, and great music! While it did slow down a bit during the 2nd act, this act also included "Rain", hands down one of the best dance numbers of the night! (If you go, be on the look out for that number. It was amazing!)
All in all, Fela! is a must-see and worth all of the hype. You will leave the theatre energized and like you were almost a part of the production. Additionally, it was a bit amazing to have the cast members come out and dance in the audience during the curtain call. That's something you don't see everyday, and it was appreciated.
If you want to check out Fela! (It would make a great outing for date night or during the holidays) CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.
