He leads us through the group’s beginnings and evolution, the highs and lows and complications. It occurs to me that the title, “Ain’t Too Proud” acknowledges conflicts and regrets, while celebrating one of the great R&B groups of all time, with a nod to one of their many hit songs. The Temptations are still performing, with newer members, and Otis still involved, writing and singing for a new “Temptations 60” album to come out next year.
Dominique Morisseau’s script, based on Otis Williams’ book, The Temptations, deftly employs the group’s classic Motown hits to illustrate the band’s relationships with each other and their ladies, as well as historic events of the 60’s. “Ball of Confusion” is a hit that could be revived today.
And, of course, the singing and signature dance moves (choreography by Sergio Trujillo) are amazing. The delicious, embellished high notes, the funky beats and the precision moves remind us boomers of our youth with style and flair. This production's Temptation performers are all fabulous singers, Marcus Paul James, and also Jalen Harris, Harrell Holmes Jr., James T. Lane, and Elijah Ahmad Lewis.
Both Temptations fans and newcomers will come to appreciate the story of how this legendary group managed to reinvent itself and emerge as a whole greater than the sum of its parts — and maybe even shed a tear at some of the losses — to the tune of “What Becomes of the Broken-Hearted.
Ain’t Too Proud continues at Wharton Center through June 12.
Tickets at:
https://www.whartoncenter.com