NYTimes.com: One of Louis Armstrong’s best-known hits is “What a Wonderful World.” In “Louis Armstrong: Jazz Ambassador,” now playing at Theater 3, Jeremy Giraud Abram, in the title role, sings it, while behind him a montage of projected images shows the Jim Crow South: whites-only facilities, a boy in a Ku Klux Klan costume and a sign that reads, “Southern Whites Are the Negroes’ Best Friends, but No Integration.” The world Armstrong lived in was often far from wonderful.
2 comments:
When you think about that contrast between the music and the southern white supremacy, it is really very jarring. I wonder how appropriate this show is for younger kids, it does seem like an adult audience will respond to it better. I shouldn't underestimate the kids or the way in which this show will be put on though.
Using Louis Armstrong as an example of success despite hardships is really strong. He has contributed so much to the world of music and knowing his past makes him all the more powerful. It also exemplifies what life was like for every black man and woman in the south, regardless of their talent.
It's hard to picture this show being for children. The themes and ideas in it seem to be aimed more at adults. However, the music is pretty timeless and something that a person of any age should be able to enjoy. I really don't know a whole lot about Louis Armstrong, but I love his music. I think this show is a great way to keep him alive and to tell his story which, i have to admit, I don't even know.
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