Slow Burn Theatre Co.'s Memphis

Slow Burn Theater Company’s rendition of the jukebox classic Memphis will surely have you dancing along and cheering “hockadoo”! Memphis the Musical centers around African American nightclub culture in the 1950s amidst civil rights turmoil. A vivacious, progressive, and caucasian Huey Calhoun (played by Brian Golub) bursts on the the scene with bright aspirations of fame and integration, unforseen in the rigid South. Golub’s Huey Calhoun exudes boyish charm as he bops his way to the top of the charts as the lively personality at the center of the radio dial, proving that just about anyone can achieve their dreams. Calhoun opens with “The Music of My Soul”, an anthem for outsiders and hope for change. He embodies a message of acceptance and individuality, mainly attributed to Golub’s authenticity and natural Southern twang. The fast-talking and genuine Calhoun challenges the segregated Memphis to open their minds to African American tunes, like “Scratch My Itch” and “Everybody Wants to Be Black on a Saturday Night”, that light up the youth of Tennessee. He uses music as a tool to modernize the community in hopes of promoting racial unity. Although Huey defines a liberal generation of Southerners, his mother (played by Shelley Keelor) offsets Huey’s political optimism with a harsh, raw portrayal of the social ideology of old Memphis. Keelor’s vocals were off the charts as she belted character defining numbers like “Make Me Stronger” and “Change Don’t Come Easy”. Keelor grounds the production in reality, reflecting the hatred that ran rampant through the South in the 1950s. From one-line zingers to jaw-dropping dramatics, Keelor’s range was on full display as the musical tackled this dimensional issue. Another woman close to Huey’s heart, Felicia (played by Khadijah Rolle) dazzles with her showmanship, scat roots, and racial pride. Huey and Felicia mark a dynamic pair whose controversial affair shakes the city of Memphis. Legendary duets, like “Ain’t Nothin’ But a Kiss” and “Love Will Stand”, showcase both the performers’ chemistry and layered depictions of interracial love in the South. Rolle’s Felicia commanded the stage with her fierce presence and firey vocals, especially during “Colored Women” and “Someday”. She drove the performance with heart and vulnerability, while still maintaining an entertainer spirit. This musical’s bursting heart and soul makes it a must-see theatrical event for people of all generations. With record-breaking ticket sales, Slow Burn Theater Company has outdone themselves with this elaborate production! From distinctive lighting to spirited choreography and relevant costumes, Slow Burn’s Memphis the Musical seamlessly infuses politics, optimism, and the harsh truth. Boogie on down to the Broward Center’s Amaturo Theatre before April 8th for an evening of fun-loving music and a tale of triumph.