Written by | Ray Cornelius
New York City is about to be lit next weekend as the lives of two music divas take over the historic Gramercy Theatre. “An Evening with Phyllis Hyman” and “Mighty Real: A Fabulous Sylvester Musical” will play back-to-back beginning Saturday, May 20.
The Off-Broadway shows will chronicle the meteoric rise of icons—Phyllis Hyman and Sylvester—as well as their personal triumphs and tragedies throughout their tumultuous careers.
Hyman was one of the brightest R&B talents of the late 70s and early 80s and stayed on the charts with such hits as “You Know How to Love Me” “Living All Alone” and “Don’t Want to Change the World.” Her live shows were synonymous with sparkling gowns, outrageous hats, lots of cleavage and a soulful voice that touched the inner most parts of your soul. She was a Tony nominated Broadway star and appeared in Spike Lee‘s “School Daze.”
Sylvester was the original “Queen of Disco” and is best known for his high, falsetto voice and androgynous, over-the-top appearance. Way ahead of his time, Sylvester was a “force” who pushed the envelop when it came to his music and live performances. He is best known for such hit songs as “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real),” “Dance (Disco Heat),” and “Do Ya Wanna Funk.”
Both shows are presented by Anthony Wayne & Kendrell Bowman of AnthonyKen LLC in association with Sheryl Lee Ralph & The DIVA Foundation. Reginald Van Lee also serves as a presenter of “Phyllis Hyman.” Wayne also stars as Sylvester in “Mighty Real” and Jacqueline B. Arnold portrays the ever so lovely Hyman.
Check out my recent UPFRONT interview with Bowman where we talked in depth about each show and the meticulous planning that has gone into each of them. He also opens up about taking them on the road and the possibility of a live TV version of “Mighty Real,” much like NBC’s “The Wiz Live!” and “Hairspray Live!”
See a sneak peek of both shows below + click here to purchase tickets:
Photo Credits: BroadwayWorld.com
