Award-winning playwright and producer Je’Caryous Johnson is set to bring the beloved 1994 film Jason’s Lyric to life on stage, marking three decades since the romantic drama first captivated audiences. This theatrical adaptation celebrates the film’s legacy while introducing it to a new generation through a fresh, immersive stage production.
A powerhouse cast of television, film, and music veterans has been assembled for this landmark production. Leading the cast is Allen Payne, reprising his iconic role as Jason—a character that helped define his career. Payne, best known for New Jack City and Tyler Perry’s “House of Payne,” returns to the role that cemented Jason’s Lyric as a cultural touchstone. Eva Marcille is sitting opposite him as Lyric, whose dynamic performances in “All the Queen’s Men” showcase her ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters.
Hip-hop legend Treach of Naughty by Nature is joining them and returning as Alonzo. At the same time, Tyrin Turner—widely recognized for his unforgettable performance in Menace II Society—steps into the role of Jason’s troubled brother, Josh. Veteran actor Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, who was celebrated for his roles in The Jacksons: An American Dream and Cooley High, plays the Maddog role. Adding to the production’s musical and dramatic pedigree is R&B powerhouse K. Michelle, portraying Marti.
Set against the backdrop of Houston’s Third Ward, Jason’s Lyric tells the poignant story of a young man struggling to escape the shadows of his past while embracing a love that could redefine his future. The film’s themes of family trauma, redemption, and the healing power of love resonated deeply in the 1990s and remain just as impactful today.
Johnson’s adaptation aims to preserve the original film’s emotional depth and poetic storytelling while reimagining it for the stage. Known for his expertise in adapting urban cinema classics into engaging live productions, Johnson has successfully transformed films like Set It Off and New Jack City into stage spectacles. His track record suggests that Jason’s Lyric Live will honor its cinematic roots and elevate its storytelling through innovative theatrical techniques.
The production will incorporate multimedia elements and dynamic staging to bridge the gap between film and theater, offering audiences an immersive experience that captures the cinematic essence of the original movie.
For Payne, this project represents a significant full-circle moment. His return to the role of Jason offers audiences a rare opportunity to witness both the actor and the character’s evolution over three decades. Revisiting such a pivotal role speaks to the film’s lasting impact and Payne’s deep connection to its narrative.
The original film, directed by Doug McHenry, was praised for its lyrical approach to storytelling, setting itself apart from the more violent depictions of urban life that dominated 1990s cinema. By centering on love, healing, and the resilience of the human spirit, Jason’s Lyric helped redefine the portrayal of Black relationships on screen.
At a time when discussions about representation in theater are gaining momentum, this stage production serves as both a celebration and a continuation of that legacy. By bringing Jason’s Lyric to the stage, Johnson ensures that the film’s themes remain relevant and that Black love stories continue to be showcased in meaningful ways.
With a stellar cast, a visionary creative team, and a timeless story, Jason’s Lyric Live promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience. The production officially launched on February 13 in Houston, a fitting tribute to the film’s setting and enduring legacy.
For tour dates and ticket information, visit JasonsLyricLive.com.
