Fire on the Bayou

The corner of Hope and Desire is a perfect metaphor for the city of New Orleans. Battered and ravaged by Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans continues to strive to not merely recover but to thrive. Written and directed by Kevin Ramsey, Fire on the Bayou at the Milwaukee Rep celebrates the history, present and the hopes for the future of New Orleans through the music that is part of the city’s rich culture.

Comprised of not only live singing and music, the show is also sprinkled with spoken vignettes about living in New Orleans. These stories exemplify the unyielding spirit of those still calling New Orleans home. While many of these tales are contemporary, the music is largely several classic tunes. Audiences will most likely recognize songs like “Iko Iko,” “Gris Gris Gumbo Ya-Ya” and “Jambalaya.”

Opening with “My Indian Red,” Milton Craig Nealy as Spyboy Jambalaya, immediately lets those attending know that they will be up and dancing with his enthusiasm and playful nature. Jannie Jones, playing Queen Marie, has a deeply flexible voice that resonates with time honored songs about The Big Easy and also with pop numbers like “Proud Mary.” Eric Noden, playing Dr. Johnay as well as serving as co-music director is a jazz and blues enigma. Dressed in a red pin-stripe suit and wearing shades, he plays guitar, bass and harmonica. He also lends his wonderfully rough voice to songs like, “Going to Mardi Gras” and “Basin Street.” Singing as well as playing keyboard, Jeremy Cohen as Professor Short-hair and also co-music director is most impressive while recounting the events of Hurricane Katrina. Rounding out the company is Scott Napoli on drums. Even though he spends the show mostly out of sight, his playing encourages the excitable and party-like atmosphere that the Stackner Cabaret is perfect for.

Fire on the Bayou is sympathetic to New Orleans but it won’t let people forget that even in the wake of tragedy New Orleans has the ability to rebound and blossom again.

Complete schedule information and tickets for this show are available at Footlights online by clicking here.