When the house lights dim and the first notes of the overture ring out, you know you’re in for something special. At Ain’t Misbehavin’, our incredible band isn’t just background—they’re the heartbeat of the show.
Thanks for Swingin' and Swayin' with Harbor City Swing | AIN'T MISBEHAVIN'
Review: A raucous, moving musical at Norfolk’s Wells
Another, lesser-known song by Fats Waller in the often raucous, sometimes deeply moving show “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” now at Norfolk’s Wells Theatre, advises ladies to — speaking of men — “Find Out What They Like” (and how they like it), and “let ’em have it just that way.” The ladies singing that early 1930s song are talking about, well, sex, but they could just as well be referring to theatrical offerings. That’s what Norfolk State University’s still new Professional Series, in partnership with Virginia Stage Company, is doing, with great success, with its first musical: giving audiences what they want and (judging from the applause) in the way they like it.
Fats on Film | AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’
Experience the brilliance of Fats Waller on screen—from his lively Soundies like The Joint Is Jumpin’ and Your Feet’s Too Big to his unforgettable turn in the 1943 musical film Stormy Weather. These performances showcase his humor, heart, and musical genius, preserving the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance for generations.
Some words from our Musical Director, Darius Frowner
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
AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' on Coast Live
By: Coast Live
Posted 12:37 PM, Sep 04, 2025
HAMPTON ROADS, VA—Ain’t Misbehavin’ is a high-energy, toe-tapping musical with unforgettable songs, and the Tony Award-winning production is headed to Wells Theater.
Under the direction of Anthony Stockard, the production is a partnership between The Virginia Stage Company and Norfolk State University Theater Company.
Beyond the music and humor lies a deeper story of Black artistry and cultural change, when music itself became a source of hope and progress in America.
Tickets
Performance Dates: September 6 thru 21
The Wells Theatre, 108 E. Tazewell Street, Norfolk, Va.
or 757.627.1234
Source: https://www.wtkr.com/coast-live/aint-misbehavin-on-coast-live
One stage. All sass, soul, and syncopation: AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' Production Photos
The Joint Is Jumpin' | AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’
The joint is jumpin’ at the Wells Theatre! Ain’t Misbehavin’ brings the unforgettable music of Fats Waller to life in a toe-tapping, finger-snapping celebration. Don’t miss the party — now playing!