Posted by | Ray Cornelius
The life and times of famed pop artist JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT is coming to the stage. According to DEADLINE, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert bandleader and musical director—Jon Batiste—is composing the music for the show.
The project is being directed by John Doyle and produced by Barbara and Alan D. Marks, who are reportedly in talks with the Basquiat estate about securing rights to his paintings and personal archive.
“Over the years, many people have approached us about telling our brother’s story on stage. But having discussed this project with the Marks over many months, our interest was piqued once we understood that their approach to telling our brother’s story treats his life, his art and his legacy with respect and passion. With Jon Batiste and John Doyle leading the creative team, we are thrilled with the possibilities. We cannot wait to begin the developmental process. Broadway is a new world for us, and we looking forward to sharing our brother’s life and art,” said Basquiat’s sisters Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Basquiat said in a statement.
Basquiat is without a doubt, one of the most beloved African-American artists of our time. While he died at the age of 27, he left behind an indelible mark on the worlds of art, fashion and music and is considered one of several artists who reigned during the iconic 1980s New York City era along with Keith Haring and Andy Warhol. Today, Basquiat is often praised in the lyrics of hip hop masters like Jay Z, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross and Frank Ocean. It will be interesting to see them pull this off.
RC will keep you posted as this project continues to develop.
Photo Credit: Prohtbd.com