The Ensemble Theatre Stages SIMPLY SIMONE 6/24 - 7/30

The Ensemble Theatre stages the regional premiere of Simply Simone, written by Robert Neblet and David Grapes. This musical portrait of Nina Somone is directed and choreographed by Patdro Harris with musical direction by Chika Kaba Ma'atunde.

Nina Simone, from child prodigy; jazz superstar; civil rights activist; to political exile was one of the true divas of the 20th century and a genuine musical powerhouse; she defined a generation and defied classification. Her silky, soulful, and untamed, voice will put a spell on you. She'll melt your heart; she'll chill you to the bone. Simply Simone crosses genres from gospel to blues to Broadway to rock and roll, and features such definitive Simone classics as "I Loves You Porgy," "The Look of Love," "My Baby Just Cares for Me," "To Be Young, Gifted, and Black" and "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood."

Featured cast members include Teacake Ferguson, Rita Hughes, Lakeisha Randle, and Samantha West.

June 29 through July 30. Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 3 p.m.

Previews are Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 8 p.m., Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 3 p.m. and Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.

The Ensemble Theatre, 3535 Main Street. 713-520-0055. EnsembleHouston.com