Presented by Virginia Stage Company in collaboration with
Norfolk state university theatre company

Ain’t Misbehavin
Created and originally directed by Richard Maltby, Jr.
Conceived by Richard Maltby, Jr. and Murray Horwitz
Directed by Professor Anthony Mark Stockard

September 3 - september 21, 2025

The Joint is Jumpin’—and you’re invited!
We’re kicking off the season in high style with Ain’t Misbehavin’, the toe-tapping, finger-snapping celebration of Fats Waller’s music and the Harlem Renaissance. This Tony Award-winning musical revue isn’t just a concert—it’s a full-on party where five powerhouse performers light up the stage with songs like “Honeysuckle Rose,” “The Joint is Jumpin’,” “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” and more.

A co-production with Norfolk State University Theatre Company as part of their brand-new Professional Series, this show bursts with sass, soul, and swing. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or brand new to Waller’s world, Ain’t Misbehavin’ is a joyful tribute to the rhythm, romance, and rebellious spirit of 1930s Harlem.

  • Run Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes with one 15-minute intermission

    Audience Recommendation: Ain’t Misbehavin’ is recommended for ages 10+. 

    Content Advisory: The production contains the use an artificial cigarette, a fake gun, sexually suggestive lyrics and references to drugs and alcohol. There is, contrary to the title, a some harmless misbehavin’!

  • Septeber 3-5 | Preview Performances
    September 5 @ 7:30PM | Opening Night Performance
    September 7 @ 2:00PM | Post Show Talkback
    September 13 @ 2:00PM | Audio Description & Open Captioning*
    September 13 @ 7:30PM | ASL Performance*
    September 14 @ 2:00PM | Post Show Talkback
    September 18 @ 10:30AM | School Matinee
    September 19 @ 7:30 PM | Theater for Everyone

    *Seating for Audio Description & Open Captioning is provided in the Orchestra Left. Please use promo code “AccessVA” on checkout for proper booking.

    *Seating for ASL is provided in the Orchestra Left side of the House. Please use promo code “ASL” on checkout for proper booking.

  • Directed by ANTHONY MARK STOCKARD

    Lighting Designer RACHAEL N. BLACKWELL

    Sound Designer BRIAN PETERSON

    Music Director DARIUS FROWNER

    Choreographer

    Resident Casting Director EMEL ERTUGRUL

    Stage Manager CHANDALAE NYSWONGER

    Assistant Stage Manager TALJEED HARDY

    Member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers Inc., an independent labor union.
    §  Member of United Scenic Artists, local USA-829 of the IATSE
    * Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States

cast



Learn more