I Wish You Love

The Ensemble Theatre presents the regional premiere of I Wish You Love, by Dominic Taylor.  Directed by Lou Bellamy. Previews: June 21, 22, 25. Opening Night: June 26, 2014. Runs: June 26 – July 27, 2014.

I Wish You Love is an intimate portrait of Nat “King Cole and his impact on the nation through music. In 1957, Americans were falling in love to the sweet sounds of Nat “King” Cole. His carefully manicured image distracted an entire generation of white viewers from the reality of racial violence raging in the streets.

Still, Cole believed that with enough talent and persistence he would be judged on the content of his character as opposed to the color of his skin.

This is the story of one man, his music, and the dreams of a nation.

Two guests are joining The Ensemble Theatre as it prepares for the finale of its 2013-2014 season of Creating Magical Moments. Guest director Lou Bellamy is national recognized as the producer/ director/ and founder of Penumbra Theatre in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Joining the cast as Nat “King” Cole is Minnesota music hall of famer and jazz vocalist Dennis Spears.

“We’ve been looking forward to bringing this play in collaboration with Penumbra Theatre Company to Houston with great anticipation,” says Eileen J. Morris, The Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director. “In the wake of losing Dr. Maya Angelou whose words continue to teach and inspire, we have an opportunity to bear witness to the journey that Nat “King” Cole and his music made on the world.”

Playwright Dominic Taylor is also part of The Ensemble’s Minnesota connection. He was the director of Penumbra theatre’s new play development program where he was able to develop I Wish You Love into what has become a well-received work.

“As part of the national theatre community, it’s always great to have an opportunity to work with colleagues from other cities and states,” says Morris. “It enhances the artistic product when we are able to share ideas and bring fresh perspectives that we in turn share with our audiences and other stakeholders.”

Featured Cast members include: Derrick Brent II, Jason E. Carmichael, Ron Jones, Jack William Rogers, and Dennis W. Spears.