Can you believe that the Tony Award-winning musical “Jelly’s Last Jam” is going to be presented at New York City Center as part of its fabulous ENCORES! productions? Well, it is and it is happening Feb. 21 to March 3. This phenomenal, beloved musical was the brainchild of George C. Wolfe and is set to the jazz music of Jelly Roll Morton. It will be directed by Robert O’Hara. This musical is going to feature an all-star cast including Nicholas Christopher as Jelly, John Clay III as Jack The Bear, Tiffany Mann as Miss Mamie, Billy Porter as Chimney Man, the Leslie Uggams as Gran Mimi, Okieriete Onaodowan as Buddy Bolden, Alaman Diadhiou as Young Jelly, and three original Broadway cast members—Mamie Duncan-Givvs, Stephanie Pope Lofgren, and Allison M. Williams—reprise their roles as the Hunnies. This musical will also star the one and only Joaquina Kalukango, who took Broadway by storm in “Paradise Square.” While in rehearsals Joaquina spoke with AmNews about her role as Anita. Please enjoy the Q&A that follows.
AmNews: How did you come to be a part of “Jelly’s Last Jam” as Anita?
JK: I was in Atlanta. Robert reached out to me and asked if I would play Anita. I told him absolutely. This is my third time working with Robert and he knows that I’ll always jump at the opportunity to collaborate with him.
AmNews: How do you feel about doing this Encores! production?
JK: This is my second Encores! production. My first was Wild Party with Encores! Off-Center. It’s so nice to be back. What I love about this process is it doesn’t leave room for doubt or fear. Come rain or shine you have ten days to create something. It’s about trusting your instincts and being present with your cast.
AmNews: Were you familiar with “Jelly’s Last Jam”?
JK: I wasn’t familiar with “Jelly’s Last Jam.” So I went through the YouTube rabbit hole and tried to find as much material as I could. There’s a wonderful documentary that gives a backstage look at the process of bringing “Jelly’s Last Jam” to Broadway. And the beautiful thing is that we get to talk to the source: George C. Wolfe.
AmNews: What is it like to work with Billy Porter and Leslie Uggams and the other members of your cast?
JK: It’s amazing to work with people you admire and respect. I’m a watcher. In rehearsal I’m glued to my seat observing and absorbing everything that they put out into the space. They are both filled with so much knowledge about the craft, business, and life. I just ask as many questions as I can and listen. Nicholas Christopher is remarkable as Jelly and I can’t wait for everyone to witness his brilliance. The entire cast blows me away. When you see what people had to learn in 10 days I think you’ll be pretty blown away as well!
AmNews: What does it mean to be in a musical that is so beloved and to appear in it with three of its original Broadway cast members?
JK: It’s extraordinary. This show has changed so many people’s lives and I can feel the excitement. I get goosebumps in the opener when the Hunnies appear. They are truly stunning!
AmNews: Are there any “Let It Burn” moments?
JK: “Jelly’s Last Jam” is full of hair raising, goosebump-filled, and heart-pounding moments!
AmNews: Why should people come to experience this musical between Feb. 21 and March 3rd?
JK: This show is not to be missed. It’s exhilarating, entertaining, provocative, and sexy. The performances are stellar. Everyone should come and Jam with us!
For more information, go to NYCityCenter.org.
