Playwright and producer Dennis Williams is set to bring his acclaimed musical I’ve Cried the Blues to the stage at the historic Shubert Theatre in New Haven, Connecticut, this spring, starring Candiace Dillard Bassett, Darrel Walls, and Karen Linette.
Linette anchors the production as Mattie, a woman determined to break free from the limitations of the segregated South. Dillard Bassett — recognized by many for her television appearances on The Traitors and The Real Housewives of Potomac — joins the cast alongside Grammy Award–winning gospel and soul artist Walls, both bringing new energy and musical moments to the show.
Set in 1945 Little Rock, Arkansas, I’ve Cried the Blues blends blues, jazz, and gospel to tell a story of love, sacrifice, and perseverance. Through Mattie’s journey, the production explores the emotional toll of systemic injustice while honoring the courage required to dream beyond it.
Williams says the musical’s message is especially urgent right now.
“At a moment when our history feels dangerously close to repeating itself, telling these stories is not optional, it’s necessary,” he said. “I’ve Cried the Blues is a reminder that our ancestors dreamed boldly in impossible conditions, and that same courage lives in us today.”
The upcoming staging builds on a legacy of past performances that connected strongly with audiences, including celebrated appearances by Avery Sunshine and Keke Wyatt.
Often referred to as “The Birthplace of the Nation’s Greatest Hits,” the Shubert Theatre has served as a launching ground for hundreds of productions before their Broadway runs, including The Sound of Music and My Fair Lady. Hosting I’ve Cried the Blues continues that tradition of spotlighting work rooted in powerful storytelling and unforgettable music.
The musical arrives in New Haven for its debut on Saturday, May 2.
Tickets will go on sale Friday, February 13, and can be purchased online, at the Shubert box office, or by phone.