Fela! is a provocative and unique hybrid of dance, theatre and music which explores the extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Co-written, directed and choreographed by Bill T Jones (Spring Awakening), Fela! reveals Nigerian-born Kuti’s controversial life as an artist, commune founder, polygamist and political activist, using Kuti’s pioneering music – which blended jazz, funk and African rhythm and harmonies – to tell the story.
Fela! premiered off-Broadway before going on to enjoy a highly successful run on Broadway, where it is still playing. The leads from that production – Sahr Ngaujah, Kevin Mambo – now come to London to alternate in the role of Fela at the National Theatre, joining a new British cast.
Fela! director Jones is the Tony Award-winning director of musical Spring Awakening, which recently won several Laurence Olivier Awards for its West End run.
Looking to see some musical theatre? Find out more about London musicals.