f you are looking for, dance, song, drama, color, fashion, art, and culture, then the "Fela on Broadway" show is the ticket to buy! This Broadway musical, nominated for Eleven Tony Awards, is far from ordinary! The show takes you through the life of the extraordinary musician and political activist Mr. Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Immediately you step foot into the Eugene O’Neill theatre you are taken away by the musical ensemble. It showcases a great mixture of AfroBeat with a hint of jazz. The repetitive use of “nyansh” typifies his music and distinguishes him from other musicians. According to Fela, “nyansh” is the bass of the music or what you feel and hear.

The eclectic sounds of afrobeat performed by the Antibalas, leaves you wanting to dance throughout the entire show. The stage is decorated with colorful graffiti and replicas of the infamous ‘Shrine’, the night club located in Lagos, Nigeria. This Shrine was a place where Fela’s music came to life in the late 70s.

The choreography by Bill T. Jones was captivating along with the colorful outfits capturing the fashion and style of Nigeria. The dancers’ energy and execution of movements is a sight to see. They all give a performance as if it were their last. The show truly captures the essence of what Fela was and is to the world.

Currently two actors (Kevin Mambo and Sahr Ngaujah) play Fela in alternating shows. I was able to watch the actor Kevin Mambo, a Zimbabwean/Canadian two-time Emmy award winning actor, best known for his role in Guiding Light and several other productions at work depicting Fela. From his dress, to his lingo to his mannerisms, Mr. Mambo brought Fela to life!

As a Nigerian/American, I grew up knowing Fela as great Nigerian singer. I often grooved to his popular songs at various Nigerian functions. I knew of him as a huge human rights activist, but I didn’t know the depth and extent of his activism. The play truly portrays the struggles and sacrifices Fela underwent in the name of justice and equality for his country. Although Fela was offered music deals and contracts all over the world, he decided to stay in his country and be a voice of the people.

From the numerous beatings he endured while jailed over 200 times to the untimely death of his mother Funmilyao Anikulapo-Kuti (played by Lillias White,) to the tumultuous relationship with Sandra Smith Isadore (played by Saycon Sengbloh,), my appreciation for Fela has quadrupled.

From start to finish, the show keeps you entertained and keeps you wanting more. The production by both Jim Lewis and Bill T. Jones is outstanding. "Fela on Broadway" is a must see!

Nneka Ezekwueche