Ain’t Too Proud Musical Going to Broadway

The Temptations

I am still humming and singing the songs from the Temptations! What a phenomenal show! I know the Temptations were way before my time, but my parents are of a particular age, so this music frequently flowed through our home.

If you don’t know who the Temptations are, well then you don’t know music! Without the Temptations setting the tone, taking the stage, and making a way, many of the artists we know today, would not stand a chance.

The Temptations got their start in show business in the 1960s with the illustrious Motown Records.  An all male ensemble with vocal ranges that harmonized out of this world songs. Let’s not forget about the hits! Hits such as “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” and of course, “Ain’t Too Proud” are still relevant to this day.

The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.

I had the privilege of visiting the Kennedy Center of Performing Arts in Washington D.C. to view the pre-Broadway showcase of the musical, “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations” This was my first time at the Kennedy Center and my first time seeing a Broadway musical and I was not let down. 

To briefly describe the Kennedy Center, this was of course named after former U.S. President John F. Kennedy and created in his memory.  The center is absolutely gorgeous and very tranquil as it lies along the Potomac River.

I don’t even want to waste time on the small details, let’s get to the show!

Ain’t Too Proud

I sat in the Orchestra seats section giving me a great, close view of the stage. The matinee showing of the musical was sold out and the audience was diverse and ready for a good show.

The show opens with the last surviving member of the Temptations, Otis Williams. He narrates the story as we travel back in time to see how the group got its start. From beginning to end, the show aimed to please. The actors, listed below, were passionate and embodied the essence of each Temptations member. Oh, and yes they can all SANG.

I don’t want to give away too much detail of the show, since I hope you will see it (and I don’t want to get in trouble), but the musical chronicles the trials and tribulations of the members in the legendary group.  From chart topping hits, family ups and downs, and the upsets of drug addictions.

There were moments where I laughed out loud, felt as if I were at a concert, and then there were the touching movement’s that highlighted life’s tribulations where I wanted to cry. This truly touches all of your emotions.

How Many Stars would I Rate this Musical?

I would give this musical 5 stars! Truly, I just absolutely loved it. I am so glad this is headed to New York to become a staple Broadway show. I would absolutely see this again and I would recommend this show to anyone who loves good music and of course, loves the Temptations!

Watch the sneak peak for Ain’t Too Proud!