Director

Season 18 at Hattiloo Theatre promises an exhilarating lineup of performances, showcasing the rich tapestry of African-American storytelling through a diverse range of plays and musicals. Located in Memphis, TN, this Black Repertory Theater continues its tradition of supporting African-American playwrights, musicians, and actors with its latest season for 2024-2025.

**Highlight Performances of Season 18:**

- **Carmen Jones** (July 26 - August 18, 2024): A Southern twist on Prosper Mérimée’s classic, set during World War II, featuring the music of Georges Bizet. Directed and choreographed by Patdro Harris, this tale of love and tragedy won three 1992 Olivier Awards, including Best Musical.

- **Coconut Cake** (August 9 - September 8, 2024): A regional premiere written by Melda Beaty, exploring retirement, infidelity, and the allure of a mysterious new neighbor. Directed by Erma Elzy, this play promises laughter, intrigue, and mouth-watering drama.

- **Paradise Blue** (September 13 - October 6, 2024): Dominique Morisseau’s gripping drama set in Detroit’s vibrant jazz scene, directed by Garry Yates. It’s a story of ambition, legacy, and the complexities of the African-American experience.

- **Disney’s The Lion King Jr.** (October 18 - 27, 2024): A youth theatre presentation of the beloved Disney classic, promising a fresh and lively adaptation that will enchant audiences of all ages.

- **A Motown Christmas** (November 22 - December 22, 2024): A regional premiere that brings the soulful melodies of Motown to the holiday season, featuring music from Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and more.

- **Black Odyssey** (January 24 - February 16, 2025): Marcus Gardley’s Obie-winning play reimagines the Odysseus saga through the lens of African American history, set in modern-day Harlem.

- **Thoughts of a Colored Man** (March 14 - April 6, 2025): A powerful exploration of black masculinity in a rapidly changing Brooklyn, directed by Lawrence Blackwell.

- **The Boy Who Kissed the Sky** (May 16 - June 8, 2025): A musical inspired by the early life of Jimi Hendrix, blending rock n’ roll with a young boy’s journey of self-discovery.

**Ticket Information:**
Tickets for all shows go on sale several months before opening night, with specific dates listed for each performance. Season subscriptions and individual tickets are available, offering a range of options for theatergoers.

**Location and Contact:**
Hattiloo Theatre is located at 37 South Cooper, Memphis, TN 38104. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 901.525.0009 (Tuesday - Saturday, 12pm - 6pm) or visit the Hattiloo Theatre website.

Season 18 at Hattiloo Theatre is not just a series of performances but a celebration of culture, history, and the power of storytelling. Join us for a season that promises to entertain, challenge, and inspire.

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Carmen Jones

Hattiloo Theatre

Get Ready is an exploration of the joys and pains that many African American musicians grappled with when music shifted from 1950’s doo-wop into what is now considered mainstream pop + rhythm + blues. The Doves, a fictional group, are well past their heyday but are preparing to “get ready” for their great comeback in hopes of recapturing the bliss of days gone by. The Doves will help The Ensemble Theatre get ready to celebrate it’s 50th Anniversary season!

Director

Patdro Harris

Events

Upcoming events

Jun 20 - Jul 26, 2026

Get Ready · The Ensemble Theatre

Past events

Jul 26 - Aug 18, 2024

Carmen Jones · Hattiloo Theatre

About

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