Queens of the Blues captures the heart of the African American experience as we reminisce on the lives of four “Blues Queens”; Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Koko Taylor and Etta James.
Thomas Dorsey, (The Father of Gospel Music) is summoned by GOD to assist the “Blues Queens” in acquiring their wings to get out of Purgatory. Thomas is joined by a close friend, famed Blues Guitarist Tampa Red, who speculates that this assignment will be difficult; None of the women have any plans on changing their mischievous ways!
Throughout the play, we are privy to learn about each lady’s fight for equality in America, particularly during Ma and Bessie’s reign in the Jim Crow south as they speak on their struggles for opportunity in a racist/sexist music business. As Koko and Etta describe their lives in the new era, we find the industry hasn’t changed very much.
Conflict arises between the ladies because they are so much alike. The four of them eventually find they are kindred spirits; realizing that their infamous behavior, which kept them in purgatory, are the key factors that made them beloved entertainers of their time.