With music by Will Marion Cook, book by Jesse A. Shipp, and lyrics by Paul Laurence Dunbar, In Dahomey is a musical that is still relevant over 120 years after the original book’s release. The film stars the legendary comedy duo of Bert Williams and George Walker. As part of their Black History Month celebration, 54 Below has dedicated an evening to the musical featuring Broadway performers Kimberly Marable and James Jackson Jr. Rolling out spoke exclusively to Marable, a multifaceted performer who has graced Broadway stages in the plays Hadestown, The Lion King and most recently, Chicago.
What makes In Dahomey special and personal to you?
I’m thrilled to help bring the music of In Dahomey to life. Particularly during Black History Month, it is such a gift to share just how instrumental Black artists were in contributing to and shaping the Great White Way we know and love.
What makes performing at the Tony-winning venue 54 Below special?
It’s always a treat performing at 54 Below. The venue is a respite for Broadway’s biggest fans to be able to deep dive into their favorite shows and artists and discover new and (revisit) old shows and artists along the way. For us to be in such close proximity to one another with the intimacy of the space makes it even more special for all of us.
Please reflect on your work on Chicago, which recently ended.
My Chicago run was such a special thing. Forty-four weeks as Velma Kelly was by far the most challenging and enjoyable run in my career. It was such an honor to follow in the footsteps of the greats like Brenda Braxton, Amra-Faye Wright, Bebe Neuwirth, and the original: the late great Chita Rivera who laid the groundwork for all of us.
What’s next for you?
My plans for the near future mainly consist of taking some time for family and health, but I look forward to being back on the boards again soon – perhaps in Chicago.
