A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical
A Wonderful World is a vibrant jukebox musical that celebrates the extraordinary life and legacy of jazz legend Louis Armstrong (1901–1971). Rather than a traditional linear biography, the production offers an intimate, autobiographical account of Armstrong's journey, uniquely told through the perspectives of the four women who shared his life: Daisy Parker, Lillian Hardin, Alpha Smith, and Lucille Wilson.
The production takes its name from the iconic 1967 song "What a Wonderful World," written by Bob Thiele and George David Weiss. With a book by Aurin Squire and a score featuring music originally performed by Armstrong, the show blends historical narrative with the timeless sounds of jazz.
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Key Facts
- Subject: The life of jazz pioneer Louis Armstrong.
- Broadway Run: November 11, 2024, to February 23, 2025, at Studio 54.
- Creative Team: Book by Aurin Squire; directed by Christopher Renshaw; orchestrations by Branford Marsalis.
- Narrative Structure: Told from the perspective of Armstrong's four wives.
- Performance Count: 151 Broadway performances, including 31 previews.
Production History and Evolution
From Miami New Drama to the Road
The musical was commissioned by Michel Hausmann, the artistic director of Miami New Drama. Development began in 2019, but the world premiere—originally scheduled for March 2020—was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The show finally premiered in Miami on December 4, 2021, running through January 16, 2022.
Following its Miami debut, the production underwent further workshops to refine the material. In October 2023, the show traveled to the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans and the Cadillac Palace Theatre in Chicago. These regional runs helped shape the production before its eventual move to New York City.
The Broadway Transfer
In February 2024, it was announced that the show would transfer to Broadway. Opening at Studio 54 on November 11, 2024, the Broadway production featured Vanessa Williams as a producer. James Monroe Iglehart, who had previously appeared in readings of the show, starred as Louis Armstrong and served as co-director alongside Christina Sajous. To elevate the musicality of the production, renowned musician Branford Marsalis joined the team to provide new orchestrations and arrangements.
Cast and Musical Highlights
The production featured a rotating cast across its various iterations, with James Monroe Iglehart and James T. Lane both portraying the lead role of Louis Armstrong at different stages of the show's development.
| Character | Miami (2021) | Chicago (2023) | Broadway (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louis Armstrong | Juson Williams | James Monroe Iglehart | James T. Lane |
| Daisy Parker | Christina Sajous | Khalifa White | Dionne Figgins |
| Lillian Hardin | Allison Semmes | Jennie Harney-Fleming | (Not Specified) |
| Alpha Smith | Nicole Henry | Brennyn Lark | Kim Exum |
| Lucille Wilson | Darlene Hope | Ta'Rea Campbell | Darlesia Cearcy |
The Musical Score
The show is structured in two acts, weaving together Armstrong's most famous hits with narrative-driven pieces. Act 1 focuses on early influences and the energy of New Orleans with tracks like "Basin Street Blues" and "Heebie Jeebies." Act 2 explores his later career and global impact, featuring "Hello, Dolly" and concluding with the sweeping ensemble finale, "What a Wonderful World."
Awards and Recognition
The production's impact was recognized at the 2025 Tony Awards, where James Monroe Iglehart received a nomination for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of the jazz icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote the book for A Wonderful World?
The book was written by Aurin Squire, with the show originally conceived by Christopher Renshaw and Andrew Delaplaine.
Where did the musical play on Broadway?
The Broadway production was staged at Studio 54.
How is the story of Louis Armstrong told in the musical?
The musical uses an autobiographical approach, framing Armstrong's life through the perspectives of his four wives: Daisy Parker, Lillian Hardin, Alpha Smith, and Lucille Wilson.
Who provided the orchestrations for the Broadway production?
Branford Marsalis served as the orchestrator, creating new arrangements for the Broadway transfer.
How long did the Broadway run last?
The show ran from November 11, 2024, to February 23, 2025, totaling 151 performances including 31 previews.