From February 20 to 24, 2024, theater enthusiasts were treated to a rare and unforgettable evening as Tony Award winner André De Shields took center stage at a special event commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the landmark Broadway musical, "Haarlem Nocturne," in celebration of Black History Month.
It is a delightful moment when one gets to see the illustrious André De Shields perform. With a career spanning over half a century, De Shields has cemented his place as a multifaceted talent in the theatre world. His contributions to the stage are unparalleled, from acclaimed roles in Ain't Misbehaving, Play On! The Wiz and his Hermes in Hadestown, which earned him a Tony, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama Desk Awards. Additionally, his accolades include a Grammy Award, multiple lifetime achievement awards, and induction into the Theater Hall of Fame, among others. He now comes to 54 Below to honor Haarlem Nocturne years after its creation.
In 1984, De Shields mesmerized audiences with his performance in Haarlem Nocturne, which debuted at La Mama and then at the renowned Latin Quarter. Decades later, at the age of 78, De Shields returned to honor this pivotal moment in his career with an evening filled with unforgettable music, untold stories, and a little bit of "nasty," all part of his incomparable wit and charm. The musical celebrates the musical contributions of Black Americans. It is comprised of old and new music along with mixed original compositions.
The evening features the original Musical Director and Cast Member Marc Shaiman, Associate Musical Director Drew Wutke, and special guests Kimberly Marable, Crystal Monee Hall, and Freida Williams, each adding flair to the celebration. The musical is superb, with original songs such hits as "Love in the Morning" and "New York Is a Party." The energy was on high! The dance moves were pumping and the cast was on fire! The performance was a good time for all and a luminous opportunity to see André De Shields as a creator.
Haarlem Nocturne: 40th Anniversary Celebration served not only as a tribute to a groundbreaking Broadway production but also as a testament to André De Shields's enduring legacy. With his boundless talent and unwavering dedication, De Shields continues to inspire and uplift audiences.
"André De Shields Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Haarlem Nocturne"
Performed by André De Shields
Musical Direction by Marc Shaiman
Associate Musical Direction by Drew Wutke
February 20-24, 2024
54 Below
254 W 54th St. Cellar, NYC 10019
Yani Perez, M.F.A, is a poet, playwright, translator, and educator. Her plays have been presented in various theaters in the United States such as La Mama and Yale University as well as internationally in Bogotá, Colombia. She works at IATI Theater, one of the oldest Latinx theaters in NYC. She is currently working on translations of Latinx artists in hopes of introducing them to English-speaking audiences. Editor-in-Chief, All About Solo, Contact: yaniperez@allaboutsolo.com
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