Ain't Misbehavin

A Musical Ode to Harlem’s Jazz Age

Chicago Heights, IL-(ENEWSPF)- Amidst the winter chill, The Drama Group is electrified to announce the arrival of “Ain’t Misbehavin'” to its stage, promising audiences a journey back to the vibrant era of the 1920s jazz scene. With Cordaro Johnson at the helm as Director, Elliott Bell as Music Director, and Liza Marie as Choreographer, the production breathes new life into the legendary repertoire of Fats Waller, evoking the ambiance of the iconic Cotton Club in Harlem.

Set to captivate audiences from February 16 to 24, with additional matinee performances on February 24 and 25, “Ain’t Misbehavin'” promises an evening of exuberant entertainment. The Drama Group, known for its commitment to accessibility, offers online ticketing through BookTix Ticketing and Livestreaming, ensuring seamless access for all art enthusiasts.

Celebrating the essence of the Harlem Renaissance, the musical pays homage to the black musicians whose talents illuminated the era’s cultural landscape. Named after Waller’s timeless classic, “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” the production echoes the rhythms of Manhattan’s vibrant nightlife and the soulful melodies that filled its clubs and dives.

Through Community Outreach Programs, The Drama Group reaffirms its dedication to nurturing young talent, partnering with the Merit School of Music to provide thousands of Chicagoland youth with enriching musical education. The collaboration aims to foster creativity and passion in aspiring musicians, ensuring that the legacy of jazz continues to inspire future generations.

As the curtains rise on “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” audiences are invited to immerse themselves in an evening of nostalgia, laughter, and toe-tapping melodies. With each note echoing the spirit of a bygone era, The Drama Group invites patrons to join them on a journey where every chord celebrates life’s pleasures and joys.

AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’ Cast

NAME	CHARACTER	TOWN OF RESIDENCE
Anthony Augustine	Ken	Chicago, IL
Kentrell Dawson	Andre	Chicago, IL
Liane Williams	Charlaine	Chicago, IL
Erline Dorcy	Armelia	Chicago Heights, IL
Marquetta Jackson	Nell	Chicago, IL
Lauren Jackson	Bartender / Understudy	Hammond, IN

PRODUCTION STAFF	POSITION	TOWN OF RESIDENCE
Cordaro	Director	Chicago, IL
Marylee Hoganson	Asst Director	Homewood, IL
Elliott Bell	Music Director	Chicago, IL
Liza Marie	Choreographer
Russ Hoganson	Scenic Design	Homewood, IL
Jennifer Larkin	Lighting Design	New Lenox, IL
Stephen Lopez	Sound Director	Chicago, IL
Stacy Norris	Sound Assistant
Qiana McNary Licorish	Costumes
Suzanne Ashlock	Asst Costumes	Homewood, IL
Kyna Simpson	Make Up Design	Park Forest, IL
Didi Roby	Hair Design
Ken Hawkley	Construction Lead	Homewood, IL
Arlene Freeman	Props / Decor	South Holland, IL
Tina Zagone	Props / Décor	Olympia Fields, IL
Jane Nix	Artistic Scenic Paint	Olympia Fields, IL
Barbie Whitney	Paint crew	Richton Park, IL
Ken Hawkley	Stage Manager	Homewood, IL
Rose Crockett	Production Manager	Chicago Heights, IL
Diane Kaffka	Marketing	Tinley Park, IL
Tina Zagone	Publicity / Marketing	Olympia Fields, IL
Tosha Sampson	Audition vocal coach
Jeremiah Johnson	Audition vocal coach
MaryEllen Fawk	Set pieces / tables	Chicago Heights, IL

Ain't Misbehavin' at The Drama Group

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We edited this news release with the assistance of OpenAI. The system produced an outline. Other journalists of the Local News Alliance, a nascent organization of five local online publishers, and I decided to experiment with this technology and learn its possibilities and limitations. One requirement of using the technology we agreed on is acknowledging our use of this tech in articles it helps us produce.