Tony Award winner Adrienne Warren will star as Delilah in the Off-Broadway stage production of Imitation of Life, the upcoming musical based on the novels and films, with a book by Lynn Nottage, an original score by John Legend, and direction by Whitney White.
Warren said, “It is truly an honor to join this incredible team in bringing Imitation of Life to the stage. Over the years, developing the role of Delilah has become a highlight of my career. She is a character I have grown to love deeply, and I cannot wait to share her with audiences.”
Legend said, “Imitation of Life tells a deeply emotional story of a remarkable woman’s journey, and I’m thrilled to know that Adrienne Warren will bring Delilah to life! Adrienne is an incredibly gifted performer who brings heart, humanity and radiance to every character she plays. I’m so excited that the world will hear her magnificent voice on the first musical that I’ve composed. I can’t wait for audiences to see her in this role.”
What is ‘Imitation of Life’ about?
Per the official description, “Across the neon rush of 1920s Atlantic City and the harder edges of 1930s New York, two single mothers — one Black, one White — and their daughters build a life together, chasing success and love by very different rules. Their stories ask what we sacrifice to be seen — and what we pass down to the ones who come after us.”
The musical is inspired by Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel of the same name, which has inspired two prior film adaptations: a 1934 version directed by John Stahl starring Claudette Colbert and Louise Beavers, and a 1959 version directed by Douglas Sirk starring Lana Turner and Juanita Moore. The 1934 film is included in the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. The 1959 film received two Academy Award nominations, for Moore and for Susan Kohner in supporting roles.
Nottage wrote the book, Legend composed the score, and White directs. National Black Theatre, Universal Theatrical Group, Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Get Lifted Film Co., Crocodile Eyes, LD Entertainment and The Shed serve as producers. Additional casting and creative team members will be announced at a later date.
Imitation of Life begins performances Nov. 21, and officially opens Dec. 3, at The Griffin Theater at The Shed, for a limited six-week engagement through Jan. 3.
Photo: Courtesy Photo Provided
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