Dorsey

From smoke-filled clubs to church congregations and the birth of a musical sound that would change the world, Dorsey – The Musical tells the electrifying true story of Thomas Andrew Dorsey. A self-taught composer and pianist who would go on to pen thousands of original songs, Dorsey was a pivotal figure in the development of ragtime, blues, and contemporary American gospel music, laying the foundation for our country's rich tradition of popular song. Some of Dorsey's best known works include "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," "If I Can Hear My Mother Pray Again," and "Peace in the Valley," each of which has been recorded and turned into hits by some of the 20th century's greatest performers, including Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Gertude "Ma" Rainey, and Aretha Franklin. We meet Dorsey in mid-1920s Chicago, caught between two cultures but on the cusp of his eureka moment: fusing blues structure with sacred text. We follow him through staunch opposition, tempting success, and personal tragedy on his way to inventing the modern gospel choir. Be among the first to experience the true story of one of our nation's musical heroes at this live reading of a new musical in process.