Fela! Broadway Opening Night Video
By Leora Kanner, Broadway Magazine
With a charismatic protagonist at its center, it only seems fitting that the new Broadway musical Fela! has charismatic stars behind the scenes as well. On the opening night of Fela!, Broadway. tv and Broadway Magazine caught up with some of the big names checking out one of the most well-reviewed shows of the Broadway season.
Jay-Z, the world-famous hip-hop artist who has backed the production, took the time to tell us why he is excited to support Fela! "I think the story needs to be told," he said, continuing, "It needs to get out there...be a source of inspiration, and passion, and pain."
Ben Stiller, the comic actor, also came out to support the production. "I'm excited to see the show" he told Broadway.tv and Broadway Magazine. "He [Fela] is such a huge influence obviously on music in general and in Nigeria he is just like bigger than big...I'm very interested to see the show and learn a little bit about his life," said Mr. Stiller.
Lee Daniels, the director of the hit movie "Precious," specifically came to the premiere to show his admiration for Bill T. Jones. "I think he [Bill] is one of the reasons I am here," he said, adding "He is a legend and I am humbled."
Oprah Winfrey's friend and radio host Gayle King was extremely excited in anticipation of seeing the production, saying "I heard that its a feast for your eyes, I have been reading about it." She relayed the advice that she was given before seeing Fela!: "Get some energy, this play is amazing!" With strong critical reviews, a dynamic score and a compelling book, Fela! has captured the imagination of Broadway. Revolutionary musician Fela Kuti may not have played Broadway in his lifetime, but based on this opening night reception, his story will live on Broadway for some time to come. Check out the entire opening night red carpet video for Fela!, as well as show reviews and articles right here on Broadway.tv.
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