Stagger Lee

The Dallas Theater Center premiered the musical Stagger Lee in January 2015 at the Wyly Theatre. Written by Will Power, with music by Justin Ellington, the show reimagines the legendary folk character of Stagger Lee as a persistent and destructive force in African American history and culture. The musical spans the 20th century, intertwining historical and mythical elements with a focus on themes like systemic oppression, personal ambition, and the struggle for the American Dream.

The production is structured around two central couples—Billy and Delilah, and Frankie and Johnny—who navigate different eras and locations, from St. Louis to Harlem to Oakland. The titular Stagger Lee serves as a symbolic antagonist, haunting their attempts to rise above challenges like poverty, crime, and racial injustice. The score incorporates a variety of musical styles, including ragtime, blues, doo-wop, and hip-hop, reflecting the evolution of African American music throughout the century.

"Stagger Lee, which features a 21-person cast, spans the 20th century, tracing mythical characters in their quest to achieve the American Dream. Billy is a dreamer and an optimist. He moves North with his wife Delilah in search of a better home to raise his young family. Johnny, Delilah's brother, and his girl Frankie also dream of a bright future. Stagger Lee embodies the challenges and struggles these two couples face along the way. Told with music that crosses decades and locations, Stagger Lee explores deep-seated themes of racism and the raw power of the human spirit."

Though it featured strong performances, especially by Cedric Neal and Tiffany Mann, and an ambitious production design, the show was met with mixed reviews. Critics praised the talent and music but noted that the storyline felt fragmented and overly grim, with its themes of despair overshadowing character development and narrative coherence.