With the festive season in full swing, the days leading up to Christmas offer us a chance to reflect on the year just passed, and celebrate accomplishments. Closing the 2021 theatrical calendar at Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Clarke Peters’ Olivier Award Winning Five Guys Named Moe is a fitting conclusion, a man’s potential journey into oblivion stopped by the wise words of his alter egos.
Amidst the gloom of the slave trade in the latter part of 19th century America, a musical revolution within the Deep South would grip the minds and souls of its population. A melting pot of French, Spanish, Haitian, Cuban and West African culture; New Orleans would give birth to an exciting movement incorporating improvisation and individuality. Jazz music has inspired generations; Louis Armstrong, Miles Davies, Billie Holliday and Ella Fitzgerald amongst others shaping the genre. Clarke Peters’ Five Guys Named Moe celebrates New Orleans Vivacity. Louis Jordan’s music and lyrics, is a nod to a genre that would unite a people rather than divide.
Courtesy of Five Guys Named Moe.