Cape Fear Regional Theatre is bringing the talent with “Jelly’s Last Jam,” a story of redemption through music and dance that opens Thursday.
With a mix of local and national actors, the show tells the story of Jelly Roll Morton, played by Andre Jordan. The famous ragtime and jazz pianist is allowed the chance to review his life before he moves on.
Jordan made his Broadway debut in “Diana: The Musical” and has spent a lifetime performing in national touring shows like “Shrek the Musical” and “Legally Blonde.” This is his first production at Cape Fear Regional Theatre.
Director and choreographer Brian Harlan Brooks, who directed “The Color Purple” for Cape Fear Regional last season, said the show centers around Morton as the Father of Jazz.
“Jelly Roll Morton has gone through his life thinking he was the best thing that ever was. He’s better than everyone,” Brooks said. “He was born Creole in New Orleans, which in American history considered themselves to be a different racial construct. But he also loves the music of African American and African people.
“His grandmother kicks him out of the house at a very young age because he is fraternizing with black people and not Creole people. He is left to find friendship within that community although he has never been able to fully embrace his African heritage.”
Morton begins traveling and singing.
“Unfortunately, he gets to New York too late. There’s already Duke Ellington and all the greats. His musical style is behind, and he’s out of time,” said Brooks.
With the help of a Greek chorus and the character Chimney Man, played by Je’Shaun Jackson, Morton is given the opportunity to examine his life in retrospect and the audience is allowed to be the jury, Brooks said.
“The Chimney Man is a spiritual influence who is summoned to help him pass to judgment day. Before Morton can make his full transition to the other side, he is there to tell the story correctly as Morton comes through the trauma of his childhood and not being able to fully embrace his African American heritage and being rejected by his Creole family,” said Brooks.
Immersed in the material
Jordan said although his character is dealing with deep-rooted issues, the music makes the show light and entertaining.
“This is traditionally a big dance show with tap. However, Brian has done a great job reinterpreting the show using African influence and roots. There is lightness in this production through African dance and a Charleston 1920s influence. It is all in between the honest things, which are heavier,” said Jordan.
Melrose Johnson plays Morton’s love interest, Anita, in her second production with Brooks. She said one of the qualities she loves about the director is that he immerses himself in the material.
“Something I admire about working with him, you can tell the history was researched, that he has done the work. As actors, that inspires us to rise to the occasion. This is a great cast of talented folks and a good time,” said Johnson.
Jackson said he is amazed at the end of every rehearsal by how intricately the cast works together.
“It’s been fun to create art. It’s been fun to create this,” said Jackson.
Brooks said the overall theme of the show is transition.
“The biggest challenges in life are when you are born and when you die. The challenge for Morton is that he has avoided his own existence. … There are people in your life who love you, and sometimes we get caught in the things that have hurt us. We don’t pay attention to those who have been there all along. What is important is to feel that you are enough,” said Brooks.
Brooks hopes the audience will leave the theater realizing that there are people around them who can put them in a place of love.
“The music in this show is there to give respite to those who are struggling. Life is challenging right now, particularly coming out of COVID, and seeing someone, even at the end of their life, being able to reconcile with their feelings can be uplifting and fulfilling, and hopefully inspiring,” said Brooks.
Tickets selling fast
“Jelly’s Last Jam” will run Thursday through May 28 on Wednesdays through Sundays. Thursday’s show is sold out, as is the May 18 show.
Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. May 5-6, May 10-13, 27-20, and 24-27. Matinees are at 2 p.m. May 7, 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28.
May 5 is “Jazz and Juice” night with live jazz music and complimentary wine tasting sponsored by downtown Fayetteville’s The Sip Room from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m.
May 6 is “Beignet Bar” night with New Orleans beignets from Mr. A’s Beignets from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m.
On Mother’s Day, May 14, from 1 to 1:45 p.m., a mimosa bar will serve mimosas and light hors d’oeuvres.
Ticket prices range from $15 to $28.
Military appreciation night is May 10, and educator appreciation night is May 12. Both offer 25% discounts.
The show is rated PG-13 and contains some adult themes and language.
Tickets are available by contacting the box office at 910-323-4233 or www.cfrt.org.
