Fela comes to the Roxy

[David Robertson]

A broadcast of the award winning production of FELA! by London's National Theater, will be shown at the Roxy on Friday, the 21st at 7:30 PM. 

FELA! explores the world of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Using his pioneering music (a blend of jazz, funk and African rhythm and harmonies), FELA! reveals Kuti's controversial life as an artist and political activist. Featuring many of Fela Kuti’s most captivating songs and Bill T Jones’s 2010 Tony Award-winning choreography, this original new creation comes via Broadway to the National Theatre, where it will be broadcast from the Olivier Theatre. Sahr Ngaujah (who won an Obie Award for his performance as Fela Kuti) will lead a new cast for the London production.

For those who don't know about Fela Kuti, he was a groundbreaking singer/songwriter who lived under a repressive military regime in Nigeria. His blend of african rhythms and funk music is often cited as a major influence on American artists like James Brown and others. He was an outspoken political activist who refused to change his music or opinions despite the threats and retribution from his government.

Tickets are $16 for adults, $11 for students, $14 for seniors. For more information, visit www.morrisproductions.org