A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical – Review – Roundabout Theatre Company’s Studio 54 – Shows I've Seen

@showsiveseen "A Wonderful World: The #LouisArmstrong #Musical" at @Roundabout Theatre Company's iconic Studio 54 starring @james monroe iglehar w/ @James T. Lane performing select nights. Tons of tap dance. The ex-wives characters were vocal powerhouses! #jukebox Review: showsiveseen.com/10204 Book: @aurinsquire Director: Christopher Renshaw Choreography: Rickey Tripp and @Dewitt Fleming Jr Stage Managers: RL Campbell, Jen Ash, Alex Luong #theatre #showsiveseen @A Wonderful World Broadway ♬ What A Wonderful World – Live At The BBC – Louis Armstrong

Elevator Thoughts (aka Tweet): A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical at Roundabout Theatre Company’s iconic Studio 54 starring James Monroe Iglehart with James T Lane performing select nights. Tons of tap dance. The ex-wives characters were vocal powerhouses! #jukebox

Recommendation:
See it if you like 1) shows with race as a significant theme 2) or shows with an old timey Southern New Orleans feel.

My Synopsis (No Spoilers): A basic biopic jukebox musical about Louis Armstrong, with all the familiar elements you’d expect from the genre.

Synopsis from the Licensor or Theatre Company: Join Tony Award® winner James Monroe Iglehart and a talented ensemble cast as they bring Louis Armstrong’s incredible journey to life, from New Orleans to worldwide fame. This full-scale musical features a rich tapestry of characters, including the extraordinary women who helped shape his remarkable life and career. Be captivated by Armstrong’s timeless hits like “What a Wonderful World” and “When You’re Smiling,” performed by a large, dynamic cast. Don’t miss this spectacular celebration of music, filled with vibrant dance numbers, stunning sets, and unforgettable performances. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable night that honors the iconic man who defined an era.

Type: Musical

World Premiere: No

Several or Few Scenes: Several

Several or Few Settings/Locations: Several

Static (Stationary) Set? Yes and no, you could argue either way.

Prior Exposure/Knowledge Required: You’ll obviously appreciate this show more if you’re familiar Louis Armstrong’s hits. I was only familiar with a scant few, but I still enjoyed the show.

Defined Plot/Storyline: Yes

Live Band/Orchestra: Yes

Union Actors: All

Total Actors: Too many to count

Perceived Pace of the Show: Medium speed

Was there an intermission? Yes

Length (Including Any Intermission): 2.5 hours

Was This the First Time I Attended a Production of this Show? Yes

Would I See It Again 3 Years from Now? No

Mainstream Appeal: Medium to high

Other Rave(s) Not Mentioned Above

Tap Dancing: I love tap dancing in musicals, and I wasn’t expecting to see much of it in this show. But to my surprise, there was a lot more tap dancing than I anticipated. What stood out even more was that the tap numbers were often performed by few dancers, rather than a large ensemble, which is more typical in most musicals.
Personal Advocacy: It was inspiring to see Louis Armstrong’s second wife (Lil Hardin played by Jennie Harney-Fleming) fight for his finances and advocate for his talent’s true worth. This reminded me of how many skilled people in the workforce settle into complacency without advocating for themselves. Too often, they don’t ask for a promotion, request a raise, or explore opportunities elsewhere that might better compensate their talent. Closed mouths don’t get fed!
Favorite Line: Something like “I’m wearing two pairs of underwear cause my lips are so chapped!”

Rant(s)

Ushers: I understand that the ushers were just doing their jobs, but their rough demeanor was totally unnecessary. Am I just not used to East coast ushers?
Venue: This was my first time at the venerable Studio 54 and I was surprised how rundown the performing space was. I guess this is expected of a historical landmark?

Other Musing(s) and Observation(s)

Rotating Stage: Often when a production utilizes a rotating stage, they tend do overuse the effect like in Hamilton. Thankfully, this show judiciously showcased the rotating effect.
Louis Armstrong’s Music: I’m generally not a fan of Louis Armstrong’s music and I definitely don’t like his voice. It’s sacrilege, I know. I personally think Louis Armstrong’s voice sounds like cookie monster. Kudos to James Monroe Iglehart and James T Lane for subjecting their voices to this extra cookie monster strain! Of note, I feel like the script didn’t explain well enough or dwell enough time on the cause of Louis Armstrong’s unique vocals.