T.J. Wilkins And Shanice Star As The Obamas In New Musical 44
Los Angeles is about to be lit up with a fresh take on political theatre as T.J. Wilkins and Shanice step into the shoes of Barack and Michelle Obama in NEW MUSICAL 44. Set to begin at the Kirk Douglas Theatre on 23 February (with an official opening on 27 February), the show promises a whirlwind of satire, song, and star performances. Created by Eli Bauman, a former Obama campaign organiser, 44 is more than just a nostalgic stroll down memory lane. It’s a comedic, thought-provoking exploration of political antics that shaped (and sometimes shook) the Obama presidency—complete with a playful nod to the infamous tan suit scandal.
A Presidential Lineup Worth Watching
When it comes to portraying a who’s who of American politics, 44 leaves no stone unturned. Alongside T.J. Wilkins as Barack Obama and Shanice as Michelle Obama, the cast features Chad Doreck as Joe Biden, Larry Cedar as Mitch McConnell, Marquell Edward Clayton as Brother Abe Lincoln, Summer Nicole Greer as Voice of the People, Jane Papageorge as Sarah Palin, Jenna Pastuszek as Hillary Clinton, Dino Shorté as Herman Cain, Jeff Sumner as Lindsay Graham, and Michael Uribes as Ted Cruz. Meanwhile, Celeste Butler, Ally Dixon, and Scott Kruse serve as understudies, ensuring that each role is in capable hands should the need arise.
Those who followed the Obama administration closely—or simply love a good political spoof—will instantly recognise the real-life counterparts these characters represent. 44 captures the highlights (and lowlights) of the 44th Presidency, culminating in a brisk, laugh-filled show that satirises everything from campaign rallies to heated debates on Capitol Hill. The production doesn’t shy away from the more colourful political figures, too, with everyone from Sarah Palin to Herman Cain making comedic appearances, reminding us of the unconventional alliances and animosities that marked Obama’s rise to power.
A Live Band With A Twist
Though 44 focuses on politics, this isn’t a stuffy history lesson. Far from it. The L.A. band House of Vibe is rebranded in the show as The Andrew Jackson Five, providing live musical backing that brings another layer of tongue-in-cheek humour. Musical director Anthony “Brew” Brewster leads the ensemble on keyboards, joined by Conrad Bauer on guitar, Corey Cofield on bass, Phillip “Fish” Fisher on drums, and Greg Raymond on additional keyboards. Their job goes beyond merely supporting the vocal numbers; they help energise the production, keeping the comedic pace buoyant and ensuring transitions between sketches flow without a hitch.
In a city famous for its soundtrack-driven cinema, 44’s focus on live music signals how Los Angeles theatre continues to develop its own brand of musical storytelling. Much like how Tim Minchin (an Australian theatre notable) integrates contemporary musical humour into his productions, 44 uses an onstage band to underscore the show’s comedic beats. Fans of musicals that blend energetic live performances with offbeat humour—think Keating! The Musical in Australia or the more mainstream Hamilton in the U.S.—will feel right at home in this witty rock-tinged environment.
Satire With Heart
The driving force behind 44 is Eli Bauman, who writes, composes, and directs. Having once worked on Obama’s presidential campaign, Bauman is no stranger to the reality behind the headlines. His approach isn’t purely reverential, however. While there’s a healthy dose of admiration for the “hope and change” era, 44 is very much a satire—one that picks apart the personalities, policies, and cultural shifts Obama’s presidency introduced.
Bauman’s statement highlights a timely reflection on how much American politics has changed in recent years. Referring jokingly to a “totally normal and stress-free 2024 election and Inauguration Day,” Bauman calls attention to the stark differences between the Obama administration’s controversies (like sporting a tan suit) and more recent political drama. Yet beneath the show’s comedic flair lies a genuine interest in exploring what made Obama’s tenure both controversial and groundbreaking. It’s a testament to how theatre can dissect real-life issues in a way that’s as entertaining as it is illuminating.
A Production Driven By Community Spirit
44 isn’t just about evoking laughter and applause; it’s also a force for good. Following the devastating wildfires that wreaked havoc in various parts of Los Angeles, the producers of the musical introduced an initiative called 20 for 20. Through this scheme, proceeds from 20 of the show’s performances will directly benefit local families who’ve been displaced or otherwise affected by the fires. These families will not only receive financial support but also get tickets to see 44 and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, making for a memorable night out during a difficult time.
As Bauman puts it, “44 is an L.A. show—the cast, the band, a majority of the crew, and many, including myself, were born and raised in the city. This is our community. These are our friends and people. This is a way to be giving back in a way that feels authentic to us.” It’s a perspective that underscores how theatre can be more than just a form of entertainment; it can become a community-building tool, generating solidarity and support for those in need. This emphasis on outreach speaks volumes about the production’s ethos, transforming it into a rallying cry that extends beyond the stage.
Details That Make The Difference
Productions like 44 don’t come together without a dedicated creative team working behind the scenes. Tony and Grammy Award-winning choreographer Miss James Alsop joins the project, ensuring the moves match the music’s high energy and comedic tone. Julio Himede oversees production design, blending the playful with the political by way of eye-catching sets and interactive staging. Jonathan Burke is responsible for sound design, a crucial element in a musical that relies heavily on crisp comedic timing and dynamic interplay between dialogue and music.
Further cementing the authenticity of this politically charged spectacle, the show’s co-producers are Monica Saunders-Weinberg (Hana Black Productions) and Bauman himself.
Satire Meets Real-Life Election Insights
One of the most striking aspects of 44 is its blend of theatrical satire and real-life political insight. Bauman’s firsthand experience with Obama’s campaign ensures the comedic jabs are backed by an underlying layer of authenticity. It’s a style reminiscent of how shows like Saturday Night Live tackle politics: comedic, yes, but punctuated by some very pointed truths. This format allows audiences to revisit Obama-era controversies—like Sarah Palin’s viral media moments or the persistent standoffs with Mitch McConnell—through a lens of humour, while still recognising how these events shaped public discourse.
In the theatre world, musicals about political leaders aren’t entirely unprecedented. However, 44 stands out by honing in on contemporary figures many of us recall vividly. In a sense, it’s an instant slice of “historical theatre,” crafted while the collective memory is still fresh. Far from being a dry retrospective, 44 transforms the comedic fodder of political gaffes, campaign slogans, and partisan bickering into show-stopping numbers and witty dialogue. Where else might you see Joe Biden, Ted Cruz, and Herman Cain sharing the same stage in a single night?
Checking The Dates And Securing Your Seat
If you’re tempted to join the laughter, performances of 44 run through 23 March, offering a decent window to secure tickets. The official opening on 27 February means the show hits its stride just as we head towards spring, a season often associated with reinvention—fitting for a production that reflects on a presidency built on promises of change. With comedic musicals known to attract a broad demographic (from political junkies to fans of toe-tapping tunes), demand for tickets could be high, especially during weekends. Planning ahead is wise if you want to witness T.J. Wilkins and Shanice capture the essence of the Obamas in person.
As for location, the Kirk Douglas Theatre is renowned for hosting intimate yet high-calibre productions, making it a perfect setting for a project as personal and satirical as 44. Its close-knit seating arrangement ensures audiences can fully appreciate the cast’s nuanced performances—whether it’s the charismatic energy of Obama meeting the deadpan comedic stylings of Mitch McConnell, or the quick wit of Sarah Palin sparring with Hillary Clinton.
Audiences Standing Up For Change
44’s collaboration with the L.A. community—particularly through the 20 for 20 initiative—demonstrates just how interconnected theatre and public spirit can be. In an industry sometimes criticised for high ticket prices and a focus on tourist-driven Broadway blockbusters, smaller or more locally focused shows like 44 remind us that theatre can remain accessible, timely, and dedicated to the welfare of its surroundings. By channelling resources to victims of the wildfires, the team behind 44 exemplifies how the stage can be a platform not just for performance, but also for palpable, grassroots-level support.
Moreover, productions that tackle recent political history tend to spark conversation, with many theatregoers lingering after the curtain call to reflect on personal memories. Whether you were pro-Obama, critical of his policies, or simply intrigued by the drama of U.S. politics, 44 provides a vantage point to relive some of those pivotal moments—and chuckle at them, too.
As 44 readies for its run at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, it’s poised to bring together a community craving both levity and reflection. For audiences eager to see their favourite political figures lampooned in a lively, music-driven environment, or for those curious about how a former Obama campaign organiser translates his real-world experiences into theatrical satire, this show is a must-see. At a time when politics can feel both polarised and pervasive, 44 reminds us that humour can bridge divides—even if only for an hour or two.
The essence of 44 lies in its ability to unite entertainment with empathy, offering a shared celebration of music and laughter while extending a hand to families facing real-life challenges. It doesn’t just spotlight the story of America’s 44th President; it highlights the power of communities standing side by side. If you’re keen to rediscover the optimism once associated with “hope and change,” or simply want a night of satirical fun, get your tickets now at CenterTheatreGroup.com. With each performance, 44 continues to keep the spirit of political theatre alive—reminding us that even in the most serious of times, there’s always room for a touch of melody, a burst of laughter, and a wave of solidarity.
