Z Space presents:
Be Bop Baby: A Musical Memoir
Featuring Margo Hall and the Marcus Shelby Orchestra
November 19 - 23, 2013 on Z Space's Main Stage
“The music of ‘Be Bop’ is the blood pulsing through its veins.”
—Robert Hurwitt, SF Chronicle.
Be Bob Baby is based on actress Margo Hall’s life growing up in a musical household under the loving presence of her stepfather, Teddy Harris, Jr., an influential music director, composer, and arranger for Motown. Harris was a pioneer with his New Breed Be Bop Society Orchestra, and also worked with such legends as the Supremes, Paul Butterfield and Aretha Franklin.
Narrated through musical vignettes and monologues, Be Bop Baby follows Margo’s eccentric and wild times of growing up in a house frequented by Detroit musicians, extended family and friends, and colorful neighborhood characters. It explores strong bond between Hall and her stepfather, strengthened through their mutual love of music, contrasting it with her often difficult relationship with her biological father.
Be Bop Baby features live, onstage music by The Marcus Shelby Orchestra. Marcus Shelby composed the original score and animates this heartfelt story with jazz, with a touch of Motown and 70s style-soul.
Credits
Composed by Marcus Shelby
Written by Margo Hall in collaboration with Nakissa Etemad
Directed by Sheila Balter
Dramaturgy by Nakissa Etemad
Also featuring Halili Knox, Dawn L. Troupe, and Mujahid Abdul-Rashid
