BET is Blue Heavenly
By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel
I first saw “Blue Heaven” at Black Ensemble Theater in 2022, and it became a favorite of mine. Legendary blues artists appear at Pearly’s, right outside the entrance to the Pearly Gates. In order to enter one must not only forgive others, but must also seek in their own souls for self forgiveness. Once again, the set is uncluttered simplistic and charming. I especially love the elegant and realistic costumes. This production is expertly written and directed by Daryl D. Brooks – everything he and the phenomenal BET founder and director Jackie Taylor touch turn to gold, their genius shining through in this inspiring theatrical work.
I can’t say enough good things about the enormously talented cast. Cynthia Carter, as Big Momma Thorton, gives a flawless performance – her comic timing is impeccable. Reprising his role from the first “Blue Heaven” production, as well as the character he played in his first Black Ensemble show, favorite Dwight Neal is fabulous as Chicago legend Muddy Waters. Mr. Neal’s vocals are extremely strong and his characterization, right down to his hair, is completely spot on. I am sure the legend himself is smiling down from heaven at Dwight’s sincere portrayal. Lyle Miller, also repeating his performance from the 2022 version as pioneer Howlin Wolf, is loaded with stage presence, giving a very authentic, believable performance.
In the role of B.B. King, who he has played before at BET, is Aaron Reese Boseman – he has an outstanding voice and is a very credible actor. A very touching monologue about one of B.B.’s many children, his daughter attending his concert while incarcerated, nearly brought me to tears. Portraying Stevie Ray Vaughn in 2022 was Chicago favorite Billy Rude, who was brilliant in the role; the 2025 version of the blues great is JJ Smith’s Stevie, also a marvelous performance – his acting is genuine and his musical talent is top notch. Mr. Smith, in his Black Ensemble debut, sheds a beautiful light on a man who pulled himself out of the hold of addiction, only to have his life snuffed out prematurely at 35 in a helicopter crash.
No review of this show would be complete without a mention of the BET on-stage band. This group of gentlemen are absolutely marvelous – no one plays the blues better than Robert Reddrick, Adam Sherrod, Myron Cherry, Oscar Brown Jr., and Walt Harrington. Although the play focuses on the deceased, this magnificent production is lively, energetic, and upbeat – a wonderful theatrical experience not to be missed. We hope encore presentations of this incredible show become a tradition at Black Ensemble, just like their perennial favorite “The Other Cinderella”. Catch this wonderful tribute to these five giants by October 26th – for tickets or more information, please check out www.blackensembletheater.org.
Category: Uncategorized
