“First Lady of Song: Alexis J. Roston sings Ella Fitzgerald” reviewed by Amy Menzel

Highly Recommended *****  It’s been over 13 months since the Milwaukee Repertory Theater hosted a live performance and there might not be a better way to kick off the return than with First Lady of Song: Alexis J. Roston Sings Ella Fitzgerald. Roston may be familiar to many, having previously performed at The Rep in The Color Purple and as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, for which she was honored with Chicago’s Jeff Award, a Black Theater Alliance Award, and a Black Excellence Award. This time Roston takes the stage to pay homage to the life and musical legacy of Ella Fitzgerald with an immersive and engaging 85-minute performance.

The production weaves in biographical information and pulls from many of Fitzgerald’s Song Books and hits from George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington and more. The narrative is interesting, but the music numbers bring the story to life. Jo Ann Daugherty is the show’s musical director and leads with impressive piano. Rajiv Halim’s remarkable talent on saxes and flute is highlighted in several solos. Charles Heath sat in on percussion for a superb performance on May 9. And Joshua Ramos played my favorite solo bars of the show on upright bass. Roston showcases her range from the very first selection, “I Got Rhythm,” infusing the number with some skat. Still, she somehow seems to get vocally stronger and more powerful in her performance as the production goes on. Consistent throughout the show are the extraordinary dynamics, layered by each musical artist, making for a moving experience. All of this is enhanced by enchanting lighting by designer Jason Fassl that helps to create an ambiance that makes an already intimate venue feel like a cozy jazz club.

I knew I missed the collective applause and the collective laughter of a live audience. I didn’t realize how much I missed the collective rapture and the silent awe brought on by a beautiful performance. I was so happy to experience this once again.

First Lady of Song: Alexis J. Roston Sings Ella Fitzgerald runs through May 23:
Tuesday – Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased at https://www.milwaukeerep.com/. Capacity is at 25% and masks are required. Other safety protocols are outlined on The Rep’s website.