The Little Theatre of Alexandria is celebrating its 90th anniversary season and is marking the milestone with an opening production of the Tony Award-winning musical Memphis, an interpretation of the roots of rock and roll in the ‘50s that is playing now through Aug. 10.

Set in the segregated south of Memphis, Tenn., the show follows Huey Calhoun, a white radio DJ whose love for music transcends the racial norms of the day, and Felicia Farrell, a black singer who can’t break out of the clubs of Beale Street.

Khanner Hancock and ensemble in the LTA production of Memphis.

 

When the two collaborate, the golden era of early rock and roll takes flight with LTA newcomers Xander Conte as Huey Calhoun and Khanner Hancock as Felicia delivering mesmerizing performances as their socially taboo relationship powers the plot.

“Memphis is more than just a show,” said director Rikki Howie Lacewell. “It’s an electrifying journey through the intertwined realms of race, romance and the rebellious spirit of rock and roll.”

A rich and raucous score by Bon Jovi cofounder and keyboardist David Bryan propels the book by Joe DiPietro with orchestrations by Bryan and Daryl Waters

The show is loosely based on the story of Memphis disc jockey Dewey Phillips, one of the first white DJs to play black music in the 1950s. The original Broadway production was nominated for eight Tony Awards, taking home four including Best Musical Score and the coveted Best Musical of 2010.

In one of the most challenging roles in musical theater, Conte’s summoning of DJ Huey Calhoun is spellbinding. His vocals soar, both in emotion and range from “The Music of My Soul” to the show’s signature anthem “Memphis Lives in Me.”

Partnering with Conte is Hancock as Felicia, a thrilling singer and commanding actress. Hancock particularly shines in “Colored Woman” and “Love Will Stand When All Else Fails.”

Produced by Eleanore Tapscott and Jennifer Thomas, the LTA production of Memphis is overflowing with gifted performers at the top of their game. Of particular note are Otega Okurume as Felicia’s brother and Beale Street club owner Delray, Lavender Brio as Bobby, Kemuel Van Der Puije as Gator, and Nikki Arbiter-Murphy as Huey’s mother Gladys.

Under the musical direction of Scott Richards, the R&B, gospel and rock and roll songs recall the hits of the era. Stefan Sittig adds powerful visuals with dazzling choreography.

When a singer lets loose - and, eventually, they all do - the vocal pyrotechnics turn Alexandria’s Wolfe Street into Beale Street.

Set designer Julie Fischer and costume designer Farrell Hartigan complete the transformation of taking the audience back to a time of social and musical change across the nation.

A talented cast, stirring vocals, athletic dance numbers and expert direction make for a crowd-pleasing evening to usher in the 90th anniversary season of the Little Theatre of Alexandria.

‘Memphis’ is playing now through Aug. 10 at The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe Street. For tickets or more information, call 703-683-5778 or visit www.thelittletheatre.com