Notable Chicago Event: Memphis Soul - The Story of Stax Records
Just in time for the 50th Anniversary of the legendary soul label Stax Records this year, Jackie Taylor's renowned Black Ensemble Theater Company (BETC) is presenting the World Premiere of Memphis Soul (The Story of Stax Records), written by David Barr III and produced and directed by Ms. Taylor at the Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon Street, Chicago.
Memphis Soul takes audiences back to 1980 and a fictitious 20th Anniversary Stax Concert. The fictional Pop's Place, a restaurant across the street from the legendary Stax Records, serves as the backdrop to deliver more of the Stax soulful sounds. Memphis Soul pays tribute to the great music of the Stax era featuring the label's biggest hits, such as "Hold On I'm Coming" (by Sam and Dave), "Gee Wiz" (Carla Thomas), "It's Cheaper to Keep Her" (Johnnie Taylor), "Shaft" (Isaac Hayes), "I'll Take You There" (the Staple Singers), and "Green Onions" (Booker T. and the MG's). This exciting, energetic, dance filled production will also honor the music of the legendary Otis Redding.
Stax Records holds a critical place in American music history as one of the most popular soul music record labels of all time -- second only to Motown in sales and influence, but first in gritty, raw, Southern-steeped soul music. Stax placed more than 167 hit songs in Billboard's Hot 100 pop charts as well as a staggering 243 hits on the R&B charts.
Check out the Stax Sound (eg Carla Thomas) on Kevin's Blog
Price:$35-$40
Open Run
Thursdays: 7:30pm (group discounts available Thursdays)
Fridays: 8:00pm
Saturdays: 8:00pm
Sundays: 3:00pm
Box Office: 773-769-4451
Comments
Holy crap, I just started listening to my Stax singles collection in earnest again a few days ago, and I even posted some Carla Thomas on my blog. What are the odds?
Any recognition or adulation that Stax gets is good in my book.
"What are the odds" indeed! Hope you don't mind if I link to it
Link away.