Review: Jukebox Temptations' Musical Still a Sensation in Providence Return

The Providence Performing Arts Center's first offering of the New Year is the return of "Ain't Too Proud," the story of the great Motown group the Temptations. Told in true jukebox musical style, it makes for a flashy and toe-tapping night of musical theater. This show grabs you, and never lets go.

The show opened on Broadway in 2019 to sold out audiences and enthusiastic reviews. (Early in its run it broke the Imperial Theatre's box office records.) This tour features original Broadway cast member, E. Clayton Cornelius as Paul Williams, plus an incredibly strong cast, with Jalen Harris (Eddie Kendricks), Harrell Holmes, Jr. (Melvin "Blue" Franklin), Elijah Ahmad Lewis (David Ruffin), and the exuberant Michael Andraeus (founding member Otis Williams, who narrates the story). Each captures the vocal stylings of their real-life counterparts, with both Harris and Lewis incredibly powerful.

Written by Dominique Morisseau, with direction by Des McAnuff (two-time Tony winner for "Big River" and "The Who's Tommy") and eye-popping choreography by Sergio Trujillo (also a Tony winner for his work here). The musical follows Otis Williams' humble beginnings on the streets of Detroit, and seamlessly tells of the group's rise to superstardom. The journey is a fun one, but not without drama, with meatier scenes nicely integrated with the flashier musical numbers.

But Morrisseau's tight script doesn't get too bogged down with too many of the dramatic elements; rather, it focuses on the successes of the group, notably in a musical and digital montage towards the end of the second act. Even a few surprises await, including an appearance by The Supremes (Amber Mariah Talley, Shayla Brielle G., and Brittny Smith), who spice things up during an early television appearance. Even the legendary Berry Gordy (Jeremy Kelsey,) who molded the famous group into the powerhouse it became, reveals some cracks in his pop music mogul's armor. "Ain't Too Proud" will leave you wanting more, plus you'll dust off your Motown collection immediately.

"Ain't Too Proud" is running through 1/28 at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) 220 Weybosset Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903. For information or tickets call 401-421-2787 or visit www.ppacri.org.