The new work, a co-production with Barrington Stage Company, was conceived by and stars Cab's daughter Chris. Blanche plays at the New Rep stage in Newton Highlands, Massachusetts, Nov. 12-Dec. 14.
Mark St. Germain pens the solo show from an earlier version by Sheryl Bailey Heath and Chris Calloway, about the trailblazing Blanche Calloway, who found success as a jazz singer and band leader. Spanning her life from a strict upbringing through the early days of jazz to becoming one of the first women (black or white) to lead an all-male Big Band. BSC artistic director Julianne Boyd directs.
Chris Calloway sings the songs that made Blanche popular including "I'm Just Wild About Harry," "I Need Lovin'" and her signature song, "Growlin' Dan." Calloway is joined on stage by a jazz duo including music director and arranger David Alan Bunn on piano.
The design team includes Janie Howland (scenic), Katherine Hampton Noland (costume) and Izzy Einsidler (lighting).
For tickets to Blanche and Her Joy Boys, at the New Repertory Theatre, 54 Lincoln Street in Newton Highlands, MA, call (617) 332-1646 or go online at www.newrep.org.