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Imitation Of Life

A POWERFUL NEW MUSICAL ABOUT IDENTITY, THE AMERICAN DREAM, AND WHAT WE LEAVE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.

COMING FALL 2026

VIST THE FULL PRODUCTION PAGE HERE

Imitation of Life is a new musical with a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, music and lyrics by Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award winner John Legend, and directed by multi-award-winning and Tony Award-nominated Liesl Tommy.

Inspired by the 1933 best-selling novel by Fannie Hurst and the beloved 1934 and 1959 Universal films, Imitation of Life follows two single mothers, one Black and one White, as well as their daughters, who build a shared life while each strives for success and love in a society divided by race and class. Set across the vibrant backdrop of 1920s Atlantic City and 1930s New York, this new, profoundly moving musical explores themes of identity, the American Dream, and what we leave for future generations.

Co-produced by National Black Theatre, Get Lifted, Crocodile Eyes, Universal Theatrical Group (UTG), Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Mickey Liddell and Pete Shilaimon of LD Entertainment, and The Shed

Featured Artists

LYNN NOTTAGE

BOOK

JOHN LEGEND

MUSIC & LYRICS

LIESL TOMMY

DIRECTOR

CO-PRODUCED WITH