When I got the call from Professor Anthony Stockard about joining this production, it came at just the right time. I’ve music-directed Ain’t Misbehavin’ many times on both national and international stages, but it had been a while. This show always feels new because it demands triple-threat talent and carries music that is layered, witty, and full of joy.
One of my favorite parts of this production is sitting down to play the actual transcriptions of Fats Waller. That means I’ve got some very big shoes to fill—maybe that’s why the song “Your Feet’s Too Big” shows up in Act Two.
Collaborating with Anthony has been a true joy. He’s a big-hearted director, and together with our dynamic cast and full seven-piece band, we bring Fats Waller’s world to life every night. What I love most is how the show reaches across generations and races—it’s a piece of theater that speaks to everyone.
And I can honestly say this: no matter the night, we give a great performance. The energy shifts, the moments breathe, but every audience leaves uplifted and never disappointed. The Wells Theatre has been a perfect home for this run, and I’m proud to kick off my fall season here before returning to New York.
📸: Jude “Cuchifrito” Kim, our bassist and photographer