This past weekend, I had the absolute privilege of attending the Broadway production of A Wonderful World, and let me tell you—it was nothing short of magical.
Before I dive into the experience, let me share a little about why this moment is so special for me. Growing up, my dream was to perform on Broadway. Although my career has been focussed more on the television and film side of entertainment, every time I take my seat in a Broadway theater, it feels like I’m living a piece of that dream. The sights, the sounds, and the energy of Broadway during the holiday season in New York City are unparalleled—an experience that reminds us why New York City remains the entertainment capital of the world!
A huge shoutout to A Wonderful World’s Executive Producers Mathew Knowles and his beautiful wife Gina, as well Vanessa Williams and her producing partner Elizebeth Curtis, who graciously invited Black Women Empowered founder, Dr. Jacqueline King, and I to experience this incredible production and meet its brilliant cast afterward.
Now, let’s talk about how wonderful “A Wonderful World” truly is. Brace yourself for a high-energy, soulful masterpiece that will transport you back in time to the jazz-infused world of Louis Armstrong and 1020’s New Orleans at the height of the jazz renaissance. A journey that will leave you entertained, enlightened, and left reflecting on the life of a man who was not just a jazz legend but also a complex figure navigating social justice struggles and systemic racism.
The Cast and Performances
The heart of the show is undoubtedly James Monroe Iglehart, who plays Louis Armstrong. His brilliant portrayal is nothing short of mesmerizing. From Armstrong's iconic raspy voice (maintained flawlessly through a demanding two-hour performance) to his infectious charisma, and contagious smile, Iglehart embodies Louis so completely that you forget you’re watching an actor. He’s no stranger to Broadway, having famously played the Genie in Aladdin, among numerous other credits, but his performance here is in a league of its own.
Beyond Louis, the production centers on the four dynamic women who shaped the jazz legend’s life—his four wives. Each actress brought her own brilliance to the stage:
Darlesia Cearcy (Lucille Wilson)
Kim Exum (Alpha Smith)
Dionne Figgins (Daisy Parker)
Jennie Harney-Fleming (Lil Hardin)
These women delivered powerhouse performances, showcasing not only their acting but also their vocal and dance prowess. Their seamless mix of swing, tap, and soulful storytelling was awe-inspiring. I’m always a fan of productions that give Black actors, and especially talented Black women a platform to shine, and these actresses commanded the stage with grace, power, and undeniable talent.
A Story Beyond the Music
While the music (rooted in the jazz tradition) is the star of the show, A Wonderful World also dives deep into Louis Armstrong’s personal and professional struggles—his insecurities as a musician, his flawed marriages, his activism, and the sacrifices he made for his art. I was surprised to learn about his early activism and the professional repercussions he faced for speaking out against racism. His story is one of resilience and reinvention, reminding us of the challenges faced by Black artists throughout history.
And let’s not forget the show’s underlying celebration of jazz itself. As the foundation for so many musical genres—rock, blues, R&B, and hip-hop—jazz is undeniably a Black art form that has shaped the cultural fabric of not only America, but the world!
My only wish? That the real trumpet players in the orchestra, who carried the show behind the scenes, had a moment to come on stage during the finale. A jam session to close the show would have been the perfect way to celebrate their extraordinary talent and the essence of jazz itself.
Why You Should See It
Broadway’s A Wonderful World is more than a show—it’s an experience that honors the legacy of Louis Armstrong while celebrating Black excellence in theater. Even if you’re not a theater guru, I urge you to see this show for the sake of supporting Black stories on Broadway. As a line from the show suggests, Black performers have always had to be twice as good to succeed, and this production exemplifies that excellence.
Broadway has come a long way in diversifying its stages, but there’s still work to be done. Shows like A Wonderful World remind us of the power of representation and the importance of preserving and uplifting our cultural history.
So, take the time to see this incredible production. Support Black theater. Celebrate the magic of Broadway. And most of all, let yourself be transported by the remarkable world of Louis Armstrong.
Catch More Insights
For more on my unforgettable experience and behind-the-scenes interviews with the cast, check out my conversation with James Monroe Iglehart and other cast members here.
Until next time, keep celebrating our culture through our lens!
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