Social Events

The Black Rep presents: Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope

First performed in 1971, "Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope" was the first musical review in the history of Broadway to be written and directed by African-American women, and examines enduring themes of economic and racial justice.

Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope
by Micki Grant & Vinnette Carroll

Sept 4-22

Garnering a Grammy and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope was the first musical revue in the history of Broadway to be written and directed by African-American women, namely Micki Grant and Vinette Carol.

First performed in 1971, the show’s themes of economic and racial injustice still ring clear today. With little dialogue in between performances, its poignant social commentary is weaved into an unbroken cycle of high-energy feel-good song and dance numbers that fuse gospel with jazz, soul and calypso. Its ability to shine a light on important issues whilst staying upbeat saw the show run for over 1000 performances during its run on the Great White Way.

Pictured (thumbnail): The cover of the Playbill for the 1972 off-Broadway production of the musical at Edison Theatre in New York City. 

 

More info