WBTT opens 2026-2027 season with ‘Sophisticated Ladies’

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is thrilled to open its "Rhapsodies of Rhythm" 2026-2027 MainStage theatre season with "Sophisticated Ladies." The musical revue, a celebration of America's greatest jazz legend, Duke Ellington, is an irresistible explosion of style, swing and showmanship.

The production runs from October 14-November 22, 2026 in The Donelly Theatre at WBTT (1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota).

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Originally a Broadway smash starring Gregory Hines and Phyllis Hyman, the revue earned multiple Tony Award nominations and became a benchmark for jazz‑infused musical theatre. Today, "Sophisticated Ladies" remains a crowd‑pleasing spectacle: a stylish, toe‑tapping journey through the music that shaped a generation and continues to captivate audiences around the world.

This show transforms Ellington's iconic songbook into a nonstop parade of glamour, rhythm, and pure theatrical delight. From the moment the band strikes up the very first number, audiences are swept into a world of satin‑smooth melodies, bold brass, and the unmistakable elegance that defined Ellington's era.

Featuring more than two dozen timeless hits, including "Take the 'A' Train," "Satin Doll," "Mood Indigo," and the sultry title tune "Sophisticated Lady," the show blends powerhouse vocals, sizzling choreography, and lush orchestrations into a vibrant tribute that feels both nostalgic and electric.

"What better way to kick off WBTT's Rhapsodies of Rhythm season than by celebrating the amazing Edward Kennedy 'Duke' Ellington! His artistry is legendary and in so many ways encapsulates what this season's theme is all about," said WBTT's Assistant Artistic Director Jim Weaver, who will direct and be a featured performer in the show. "We invite the community to experience both the emotional depth and exhilarating spectacle of classic jazz."

Featured cast members joining Weaver are Jazzmin Carson, Jocelyn Darci Trimmer, Leon S. Pitts II, Dawn Derow, Marcel Joshua, and Jeff Gallup, with Marta Myada and Ulric Alfred Taylor at the ready as understudies.

Choreographer is Monessa Salley. Music director is Carl Haan; the live band features Haan on main keys, Isaac Hunt Mingus on bass, Pablo Gil and Ryan Redden on reeds, Victor Mongillo on trumpet, Don Parker on trombone, and Aaron Nix on drums.

Roland Black is the director of production, Kacie Ley is the stage manager, Suwatana "Pla" Rockland is the costume designer, Harlan Penn is scenic designer, Michael Pasquini is the lighting designer, Patrick Russini is the sound designer, Marlon Black is the assistant technical director, Leya Black is the properties designer, and Michelle Harvey is the projections designer.

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Tickets are $60/adults, $25/students and active military (with valid IDs). Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org or call the Box Office at 941-366-1505.

About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and builds confidence in youth of color. Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org for more information.