By Amy Lipson
24 Nov 2009

Fela!, a biographical musical celebration of Nigerian musical pioneer and political activist Fela Kuti, celebrated its opening night Nov. 23.

After an acclaimed run Off-Broadway in 2008, Fela! began previews on Broadway Oct. 19. Sahr Ngaujah, who headlined the Off-Broadway premiere, alternates in the role of the late African musical figure, with Kevin Mambo. The principal cast also features Tony winner Lillias White as Fela Anikulapo-Kuti's mother, Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, and Saycon Sengbloh as his love interest, Sandra.

Tony-winning Spring Awakening choreographer Bill T. Jones directs and choreographs the production that features a book by Jones and Jim Lewis and utilizes Anikulapo-Kuti's own music. Lewis, a Tony nominee for Chronicle of a Death Foretold, also penned additional lyrics. The musical was conceived by Bill T. Jones, Jim Lewis and Stephen Hendel.

The production incorporates the Afrobeat orchestra Antibalas and other members of the NYC Afrobeat community, under the direction of Aaron Johnson, who perform Kuti's music live onstage.

In Fela!, according to production notes, "audiences are welcomed into the extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Using his pioneering music (a blend of jazz, funk and African rhythm and harmonies), [the musical] explores Kuti's controversial life as artist, political activist and revolutionary musician."

Here is a look at the opening night party at Gotham Hall:

View the Entire Photo Gallery Bill T. Jones Photo by Aubrey Reuben

Fela! is produced by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter, Will & Jada Pinkett Smith, Ruth & Stephen Hendel, Roy Gabay, Edward Tyler Nahem, Slava Smolokowski, Chip Meyrelles/Ken Greiner, Steve Semlitz/Cathy Glazer, Daryl Roth/True Love Productions, Knitting Factory Entertainment and Susan Dietz. In association with Ahmir "?uestlove" Thompson.

Visit FelaonBroadway.

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