Obama musical ’44’ to make Philly debut ahead of Election Day

Ahead of the 2024 Presidential Election, the acclaimed musical comedy ‘ 44 – The unOfficial, unSanctioned Obama Musical‘ is set to come to Philadelphia at Suzanne Roberts Theatre to bring a touch of humor to politically charged times.

The satirical look at the rise and presidency of Barack Obama has already enchanted sold-out crowds across the United States, from New York to Los Angeles, and most recently in the Obamas’ hometown of Chicago. The show was so well received in Chicago that audiences and critics demanded it extend its run into the Democratic National Convention back in late August.

Starring T.J. Wilkins (NBC’s “The Voice“) as ‘Barack Obama,’ Shanice (award-winning R&B artist – “I Love Your Smile” and OWN’s “Flex & Shanice”) as ‘Michelle Obama,’ and Chad Doreck as ‘Joe Biden’ — who tells this tale through his own hazy recollection — ’44’ features all the eccentric political characters the 44th President met along the way, including Hilary Clinton, Sarah Palin, and Mitch McConnell.

As for the accompaniment, ’44’ features legendary L.A. band House of Vibe as “The Andrew Jackson Five,” with Anthony “Brew” Brewster—who also provides music direction—and Greg Raymond (keyboard), Phillip “Fish” Fisher (drums), Corey Cofield (bass), and Conrad Bauer (guitar).

Winner of seven 2023 BroadwayWorld L.A. Awards, including Best Musical and Best Ensemble, ’44’ is written, composed, and directed by Eli Bauman, a former Obama campaign organizer. The musical is produced by Bauman alongside his partner and fellow lead producer Monica Saunders-Weinberg and additional producers Kevin Bailey and Steve McKeever, in association with Martin Lawrence and Stacy Lyles.

“As we careen toward the totally normal and stress-free 2024 election, we hope you’ll join us for a look back at the 44th Presidency of the United States — when the White House was full of hope, the President didn’t endorse a violent attack on his own vice president, and the president’s largest scandal was wearing a tan suit,” Bauman said.

Featuring three previews and four performances, there are plenty of opportunities to take in this blend of humor and history. The previews begin on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 7:30 p.m. and will have additional previews at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30. Opening night is set for Friday, Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m., with additional performances on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and a fourth and final performance at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3.

For more information and tickets, visit 44theobamamusical.com