MA RAINEY 40s-50s, African American Based on the real life Gertrude “Ma” Rainey, a popular blues singer from the 1920s.  Very particular,  who has to have things her way. She knows that her white associates are only interested in her because she makes them money, and she uses this truth to get what she wants. GREAT SINGING SKILLS NECESSARY.

 

LEVEE 30s, African American The trumpet player in Ma Rainey’s band.  He knows he is talented and he has plans to start his own band. TRUMPET PLAYING SKILLS NECESSARY>

 

CUTLER 50s, African American Trombone and guitar player in Ma Rainey’s band. He is a veteran musician and the head of the instrumentalists.  A very solid, old-school musician. TROMBONE AND GUITAR PLAYING SKILLS NECESSARY 

 

TOLEDO 60s-70s, African American The piano player in Ma Rainey’s band. He often philosophizes and tries to educate the other members of the band on the black experience.

BLUES PIANO PLAYING SKILLS NECESSARY

 

SLOW DRAG 50s, African American. The bass player in Ma Rainey’s band. A veteran musician and has worked with Cutler for over 20 years.  He just wants to get the job done and go home. 

UPRIGHT BASS PLAYING SKILLS NECESSARY. 

 

MEL STURDYVANT, 40s-50s, Caucasian. The owner of the Chicago recording studio where Ma Rainey is recording.  He is incredibly frustrated with Ma’s behavior and uncompromising attitude

 

IRVIN 40s-50s, Caucasian. Ma Rainey’s manager and Sturdyvant’s partner in this business venture. He continually tries to keep the peace between Ma and Sturdyvant.

 

DUSSIE MAE Female, 20s-30s, African American. Ma Rainey’s lover. She is a very ambitious woman who is shameless in the pursuit of her desires and dreams.

DANCE SKILLS ENCOURAGED

 

SYLVESTER BROWN Male, early 20s, African American. Ma Rainey’s nephew,  He has a terrible stutter, yet surprisingly outspoken.

 

POLICEMAN Male, 30-40s, Caucasian.  He isn’t convinced that Ma is as famous as she says she is, and seeks guidance from Sturdyvant and Irvin.