Sophisticated Ladies: A Dazzling, Deliciously Glamorous Night at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
Sensational voices, sizzling tap dancing, exquisite costumes and the timeless music of Duke Ellington make this Sarasota production an absolute showstopper.
By Susan Short | Family Beautiful Magazine
Some evenings at the theater are entertaining. Others are memorable. And then there are those rare, absolutely fabulous nights when the music, dancing, glamour and sheer talent onstage come together in a spectacular celebration of everything we love about live performance.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s production of Sophisticated Ladies is most definitely the latter.
Based on the magnificent music of legendary jazz composer and bandleader Duke Ellington, this dazzling musical revue is a sophisticated, sassy, toe-tapping extravaganza that practically demands you dress up, put on something fabulous and prepare to be thoroughly entertained.
And fabulous it is!
A Sarasota Treasure with Broadway-Level Talent
Under the artistic leadership of Nate Jacobs, founder and artistic director of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, this remarkable Sarasota company continues to deliver professional productions that rival those in much larger theatrical markets.
Director Jim Weaver has created an evening filled with elegance, warmth, humor and irresistible energy. Weaver, who also serves as WBTT’s assistant artistic director, brings his considerable theatrical experience to this production, creating a beautifully balanced celebration of Ellington’s extraordinary musical legacy.
And here’s an additional treat: Weaver also performs in the production as The Raconteur, bringing sophistication, charm and a wonderfully seasoned presence to the stage.
The production opens WBTT’s 2026–2027 season, appropriately titled Rhapsodies of Rhythm, and what a glorious way to begin!
The Voices? Simply Sensational!
Let’s begin with the singing, because this cast is absolutely extraordinary.
Jazzmin Carson, appearing as The Chanteuse, is a captivating presence, bringing glamour, vocal sophistication and commanding stage presence to the production. There is something wonderfully timeless about her performance, perfectly suited to the elegance and emotional richness of Ellington’s music.
Carson embodies the very essence of a sophisticated lady, with all the musical confidence and theatrical polish the role demands.
Leon S. Pitts II, appearing as The Hipster, brings charisma, musicality and infectious personality to the stage, while Dawn Derow, as The Soubrette, adds sparkle, versatility and delightful theatrical flair.
Marcel Joshua, appearing as The Jazzbo, and Jeff Gallup, as The Danseur, contribute impressive movement, style and showmanship, particularly during the exuberant dance sequences.
Jocelyn Darci Trimmer is also among the talented featured performers who bring this spectacular production to life.
Together with Weaver, these remarkable artists create an ensemble filled with individuality, chemistry and extraordinary versatility. The production also includes understudies Marta Myada and Ulric Alfred Taylor, part of the talented company supporting this ambitious musical celebration.
These performers don’t simply sing Duke Ellington’s music. They inhabit it, bringing personality and theatrical excitement to every number.
From the sultry sophistication of “Sophisticated Lady” and “Mood Indigo” to the exuberant rhythms of “Take the A Train,” “Satin Doll” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” the music is glorious.
And the performances are electric.
Those Dancing Feet Deserve Their Own Standing Ovation
And then there is the dancing!
Oh, the dancing.
The tap performances alone are worth the price of admission.
Fast, precise, playful and impossibly stylish, the dancers deliver rhythmic brilliance that makes you want to jump out of your seat and join the celebration.
Of course, most of us wisely remain seated. These professionals make incredibly demanding choreography look effortless.
Choreographer Monessa Salley deserves tremendous applause for creating such a captivating visual experience.
Every synchronized step, elegant turn and lightning-fast tap contributes to the evening’s excitement. The choreography celebrates old-school Broadway glamour while maintaining a wonderfully fresh, contemporary energy.
These dancers are exceptional, and their seemingly endless enthusiasm is infectious.
The Costumes? Darling, Absolutely Fabulous!
Now, we simply must discuss the costumes.
Because what would Sophisticated Ladies be without a magnificent helping of glamour?
Costume designer Suwatana “Pla” Rockland deserves a particularly enthusiastic round of applause for the gorgeous wardrobe that brings this production so beautifully to life.
The costumes are a visual delight, capturing the elegance, theatrical extravagance and unmistakable style of the jazz era.
From glamorous eveningwear to imaginative performance ensembles, the wardrobe adds color, texture, movement and sophistication to every scene.
There is sparkle, elegance and just enough theatrical extravagance to remind us that dressing beautifully was once practically an art form.
Combined with the impressive scenic design by Harlan Penn, lighting by Michael Pasquini and projections by Michelle Harvey, the visual presentation creates an atmosphere that feels part glamorous nightclub, part Broadway spectacle.
Absolutely gorgeous!
The Live Orchestra Is a Star in Its Own Right
One of the most delightful elements of Sophisticated Ladies is the outstanding live orchestra, under the musical direction of Carl Haan.
And what a difference live music makes!
With the musicians positioned prominently in the stage setting, the production captures the intimate excitement of a sophisticated jazz club.
Haan leads an impressive ensemble featuring Isaac Hunt Mingus on bass, Pablo Gil and Ryan Redden on reeds, Victor Mongillo on trumpet, Don Parker on trombone and Aaron Nix on drums.
The brass swings, the rhythm section sparkles, and every musical arrangement reminds us of Ellington’s extraordinary genius.
The orchestra isn’t merely accompanying the singers and dancers. It is an essential part of the performance, creating that glorious chemistry that only live music can deliver.
Haan’s musical direction gives the entire evening an irresistible heartbeat.
The Verdict? Simply Fabulous!
Sophisticated Ladies is more than a musical revue. It is a dazzling celebration of American musical history, extraordinary theatrical talent and the remarkable legacy of Duke Ellington.
Under Jim Weaver’s accomplished direction, with exceptional performers, sensational choreography, fabulous costumes and outstanding live musicians, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe has created a wonderfully polished evening of entertainment.
And Nate Jacobs deserves continued recognition for his vision in building a theater company that is such a vital and impressive part of Sarasota’s arts community.
The production is elegant without being stuffy, glamorous without being pretentious and deliciously entertaining from beginning to end.
My advice? Make an evening of it. Dress beautifully, bring someone who appreciates great music and prepare for a sparkling night at the theater.
Because sometimes, darling, a little sophistication is exactly what the world needs.
And Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe delivers it in spectacular fashion.
Bravo to the entire cast, creative team and musicians. What a fabulous night out!
Sophisticated Ladies
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
The Donelly Theatre
1012 N. Orange Avenue, Sarasota, Florida
Through November 22, 2026
Tickets: www.westcoastblacktheatre.org
Box Office: 941-366-1505
