Marilyn and Ella

Synopsis

It’s 1955 and Marilyn Monroe is at the height of her fame. Despite this, she wants to be taken seriously as an artist, like the woman she most admires, jazz icon Ella Fitzgerald, who is also at the peak of her career. Even though she can’t quite believe her own success, Ella wants more too. She wants the kind of fame Marilyn has. She wants to be in the movies. But to break into Hollywood, she needs to meet the ‘right’ people like the producers and money-men who frequent the ‘living-room of the stars’ Mocambo night club. But Ella stands no chance of singing at the whites-only Mocambo... until Marilyn steps in and pulls strings like nobody else can! These two iconic women - both outsiders - come together in an evening of raw emotion and great songs. A true but forgotten moment of American showbiz history re-enacted live on stage.

Latest User Review

Joanne Thomas - 23 November 2009:

Bonnie Greer's wonderful, original Marilyn and Ella has brought to life a neglected episode in the life of these two iconic stars. Telling the true story of when Marilyn helped Ella break the color bar and become the first black headliner at Hollywood nightclub the Mocambo, Greer challenges easy assumptions about both women, bringing out Ella's vulnerability and Marilyn's strength. Susie Kennedy offers a standout performance as Marilyn, moving well beyond the standard "breathy" impersonation into a strong, nuanced portrayal of an actress, not a blowup doll. Hope Augustus is a memorable Ella and the two powerhouse performances combine with Greer's intelligent script to offer a memorable evening of history, song, and sisterhood. Don't miss. - Sarah Churchwell...

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