Michael and Barbara Ross produce the production that was to play Luna Stage Aug. 16-Sept. 2. Ethel Waters: His Eye Is On the Sparrow was an independent production and was not part of Luna Stage's seasonal programming.

In an Aug. 11 statement, Luna Stage managing director Mona Hennessy cited "internal contractual concerns" for the cancellation on the company's website.

Larry Parr authored the solo play, about the late Academy Award-nominated blues and jazz vocalist known for such songs as "Supper Time" and her performance on Broadway in Member of the Wedding.

Ethel Waters: His Eye Is On the Sparrow was to be directed and choreographed by Dennis Courtney.

The spirit of the piece will live on when Pinkins (Caroline, or Change; Jelly's Last Jam; The Wild Party) brings the music of Ethel Waters to 54 Below on Aug. 27. The musical evening promises selections from Hurricane Ethel, a one-woman show about Waters, which is credited as being co-written by Pinkins and director Courtney. Read more about Hurricane Ethel at 54 Below here.