A stage adaptation of Imitation of Life will premiere this fall at The Shed in a four-week limited engagement. The musical features a book by Lynn Nottage and music and lyrics by John Legend, with direction by Liesl Tommy.
The project is inspired by Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel, which later became two celebrated films from Universal Pictures in 1934 and 1959.
Set between 1920s Atlantic City and 1930s New York, the story follows two single mothers — one Black and one white — raising their daughters while navigating ambition, survival, identity, and the realities of race and class in America. The musical centers the journeys of Delilah and Peola Johnston, characters whose relationship has remained one of the most discussed elements of the property for generations.
In a joint statement, the creative team said the material still speaks powerfully to the present day, citing its continued relevance around race, gender, and opportunity. They also described the adaptation as a chance to revisit the novel’s emotional core while shaping something urgent for contemporary audiences.
This marks the first time Legend will write a full musical for the stage. He earned EGOT status in 2018 and previously produced Broadway works including Jitney, in addition to contributing music to SpongeBob SquarePants and starring in NBC’s live production of Jesus Christ Superstar.
The production brings together National Black Theatre, Get Lifted Film Co., Crocodile Eyes, Universal Theatrical Group, LD Entertainment, and The Shed.
Casting, additional creatives, and exact performance dates are expected to be announced later.