John Douglas Thompson to Play Louis Armstrong in SATCHMO AT THE WALDORF; Performances to Begin 2/15 at Westside Theatre

It was announced today that, following acclaimed, sold-out runs at Long Wharf Theatre and Shakespeare and Company, Terry Teachout's play Satchmo at the Waldorf, will enjoy a New York premiere this spring. Starring John Douglas Thompson and directed by Gordon Edelstein, Satchmo at the Waldorf will begin performances as Off Broadway's Westside Theatre (407 West 43rd Street) on Saturday, February 15. Opening night is set for Tuesday, March 4, 2014

In March of 1971, one of the greatest music legends the world would ever know was performing the final set of shows he would ever play at New York's Waldorf Astoria Hotel. But the audiences who adored him onstage never really saw the man behind the trumpet. In Terry Teachout's searing and surprisingly intimate play, Satchmo at the Waldorf, we encounter Louis Armstrong where few ever had the chance to see him: backstage. Reflecting on his own unlikely career amidst a rapidly changing society, the icon is stripped bare, revealing complexities and contradictions that his omnipresent smile, horn and handkerchief belied. Critically acclaimed actor John Douglas Thompson, seamlessly morphing between Armstrong, his manager Joe Glaser, and fellow trumpeter MiLes Davis, gives one of the most vivid portraits ever created for the stage.

Please note: Satchmo at the Waldorf contains strong language and may not be appropriate for young children.

The design team for Satchmo at the Waldorf includes Lee Savage (Scenic Design), Ilona Somogyi (Costume Design), Kevin Adams (Lighting Design), and John Gromada (Sound Design).

Tickets for Satchmo at the Waldorf, priced at $39 and $79, are available online via Telecharge.com or by phone at (212) 239-6200/(800-432-7250. Tickets will also be available for purchase in person, at The Westside Theatre Box Office (407 West 43rd Street).

Satchmo at the Waldorf is produced by Long Wharf Theatre and Shakespeare and Company. Joey Parnes Productions serves as Executive Producer.

Photo by Walter McBride