Episode Details

Sister Rosetta Tharpes Life Celebrated in New Play with Music

The new play with music, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, tells the story of the godmother of rock and roll, played by Beverley Knight. The production highlights Tharpes powerful vocals and electric guitar style, which blended gospel and early rock influences. Revered by stars like Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, and Bob Dylan, Tharpes life and career are explored in the play.

Set in a Mississippi funeral parlor in 1946, the play follows Tharpe as she teams up with young singer Marie Knight, played by Ntombizodwa Ndlovu. They prepare for a tour through the segregated South, with Tharpe coaching Knight to add more flair to her holy style.

The play features standout songs like Up Above My Head and Strange Things Happening Every Day, backed by a tight all-female band. Despite some pacing bumps, the music shines bright and the two leads chemistry carries the production. The play is a strong tribute to Tharpes legacy that audiences are loving.

Support the show:
Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/43302e65edafe438