August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
A Noise Within Theatre presents
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Written by August Wilson
Directed by Gregg T. Daniel
Click here for tickets!
Set in a Chicago recording studio in 1927, August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom unfolds with tension, music, and truth. As legendary blues singer Ma Rainey arrives to record, underlying conflicts rise among her band, exposing deep wounds, ambition, and the realities of race in America. With sharp dialogue and unforgettable characters, Wilson crafts a powerful, intimate portrait of artistry, identity, and control. Both electric and deeply human, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a gripping exploration of faith, joy, and the cost of being heard.
Featuring: Amber Liekhus, Jamar Gilbert, Kai A. Ealy, Gerald C. Rivers, Alex Morris, Bert Emmett, Matt Foyer, CJ Obilom, Francis C. Edemobi, and James Nardini.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
Opening Night: August 29, 2026 – 7:30pm
Black Out Night: September 12, 2026 – 7:30pm
Pay What You Choose: August 26, 2026 & August 27, 2026
Pay What You Choose tickets will be available to purchase online for as low as $10 starting at 12 pm on the Monday before the performance with the choice to pay $10 or $20 (excluding handling fee). Tickets can also be purchased at the Box Office after 2pm day of the performance. Suggested price of $10.
Insiders Discussion: August 30, 2026 – 12:30pm
Join at 12:30pm prior to the August 30 matinee for a FREE INsiders Discussion!
Post-Show Conversations: September 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th
After select Friday 7:30pm and Sunday 2 pm performances, join after the show for a conversation with the actors.