The vibrant and captivating world of the Harlem Renaissance is about to come alive once again on an Orlando stage, and this time, it's just in time for Juneteenth. The award-winning musical 'Lenox Ave', a celebration of Black culture and artistic innovation, is back with a fresh and exciting production.
A Musical Journey through History
'Lenox Ave' takes us on a journey through the incredible creative movement of the Harlem Renaissance, a period in the 1920s and '30s when New York City became a hub of Black art, culture, and civil rights expansion. Written and composed by Brandon Martin, an Orlando resident with deep roots in New York, the musical tells the story of Langston Hughes, a renowned writer and social activist who was at the forefront of this cultural explosion.
What makes this musical truly special is Martin's unique approach to Hughes' poetry. Inspired by Hughes' first collection, 'The Weary Blues', Martin has put a modern twist on these timeless poems, infusing them with a diverse range of musical styles. From jazz to hip-hop, rock to blues, and even calypso, the show showcases the rich tapestry of the African diaspora.
The Power of Jazz and Its Legacy
One of the most fascinating aspects of 'Lenox Ave' is its exploration of jazz, a genre that was once considered unsuitable for polite society. Yet, as Caila Carter, the director of this production, points out, jazz laid the foundations for popular music as we know it today. The Harlem Renaissance, with its bold and innovative spirit, gave birth to a musical revolution that continues to influence and inspire generations.
"Popular music's origins can be traced back to the jazz standards created for Broadway shows, all inspired by the Harlem Renaissance," Carter explains. "It's a lineage that birthed Latin jazz, calypso, and even early hip-hop, which draws heavily from jazz influences and samples."
A Cultural Explosion and Its Impact
The Harlem Renaissance was not just about music; it was a cultural explosion that encompassed poetry, prose, dance, and the celebration of Black identity in America. New York's Harlem neighborhood became a melting pot of nearly 175,000 African Americans, each bringing their unique experiences and determination to forge a new path. The Renaissance Theatre Co.'s production of 'Lenox Ave' captures this spirit, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and streets of the Harlem Renaissance with Hughes' poetry as its heart.
Langston Hughes, a guiding light of this movement, used his words to share the truths of Black literary, intellectual, and artistic lives, as well as the struggles and joys of the Black working class. His poetry, when melded with jazz, calypso, rock, and blues, takes on a new and harmonious life, creating a powerful and moving experience.
A Personal Connection and Creative Vision
For Brandon Martin, the opportunity to write about the Harlem Renaissance and Hughes was a dream come true. Having performed on historically Black stages like the Apollo Theater and with personal connections to New York, Martin felt a deep connection to this story. When Donald Rupe, the creative director at the Ren, proposed the idea of reinterpreting Hughes' poetry, Martin jumped at the chance.
"It's always been there in the background, waiting to be brought to life," Martin says. "The process of creating this musical felt natural, as if the story and the music were already within me, just waiting to be shared."
An Intimate and Innovative Experience
The staging of 'Lenox Ave' is designed to create an intimate and immersive experience for the audience. With a cabaret cocktail-style set, immersive interplay beyond the stage, and costuming that references the 1920s, the play transports viewers back in time. The choreography by Adonus Mabry adds another layer of depth, connecting audiences to the joy, authenticity, and creativity at the heart of this musical.
"The music that Brandon has created is brilliant," Carter says. "The way he has matched the styles of poetry with the music is an art form in itself. It's an honor to help tell this story and share it with audiences."
A Celebration of Juneteenth and American Culture
This new production of 'Lenox Ave' is particularly timely, as it coincides with Juneteenth, a day that celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The musical not only celebrates Black culture but also highlights the depth and richness of American culture as a whole. As Carter points out, so many aspects of American culture can be traced back to the Harlem Renaissance, making this musical an important and powerful statement.
"I want people to take away not just the explosion of Black culture, which is incredibly important, but also an appreciation for the explosion of American culture that the Harlem Renaissance represents," Carter adds.
A Must-See Experience
'Lenox Ave' is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of American culture, the power of music and poetry, and the celebration of Black identity. With its innovative staging, brilliant music, and powerful message, this award-winning musical is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the Harlem Renaissance through the lens of a modern musical masterpiece.
Show Details
- When: 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. Friday, 6 p.m. & 9 p.m. Saturday, June 19-20, 2026
- Where: Judson's Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.
- Tickets: $56-$73
- More Information: Dr. Phillips Center Website
Conclusion
'Lenox Ave' is more than just a musical; it's a celebration of culture, history, and the power of artistic expression. Through its innovative approach and powerful storytelling, this production brings the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance to life, reminding us of the importance of embracing and celebrating our diverse cultural heritage.
