Bessie Smith was one helluva gal, and K. Edmonds does her legacy justice in a raucous, gin joint-style tribute to the pioneering Empress of the Blues. Musical numbers including “St. Louis Blues” and “Tain’t Nobody’s Bizness If I Do” lead the audience through highs and lows of her turbulent life, and are peppered with banter between the singer and her faithful piano man Pickles. Bessie dishes about her loves, her fights, and her high times as a Grand Damme on the main circuit, outselling all other artists in her era, black or white. But what really shines in this show is Bessie Smith’s music, every bit as hot and heavy as the private train she toured in. Don’t miss it.
$25 or donation
Every Thurs.-Sun.until April 22
Thursdays at 8pm & Sundays at 2pm
The Yellow Barn, 416 W. Huron
Advanced tickets sold at theatrenova.org or (if available) at the door.
