Marie And Rosetta Is A Triumph

Sister Rosetta Tharpe was an American singer, songwriter and guitarist, who today is referred to as “the original soul sister” and “the Godmother of rock and roll.” Her influence on some of the greatest musicians of all time cannot be ignored, the likes of Tina Turner, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix all revered Rosetta and her incredible playing style that was the true start of electric blues. Yet when she died, at the early age of 58, she was buried in an unmarked grave, forgotten by all but those who had loved her most. Now, Marie and Rosetta revisits the Rosetta story, as well as that of her protegee and possible lover, Marie Knight.  It opened at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre last night, and its stars, Beverly Knight and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu completely blew the roof off the old theatre with the most thrilling vocal performances you are likely to hear all year.

The story is set in a single night in 1946. Rosetta is a star who sells out venues wherever she goes. Feeling that her stardom is threatened by the God fearing gospel of Mahalia Jackson, she decides to add an ‘and’ to her show by adding a younger singer, Marie Knight to her act. Marie is unsure, she sure wants to sing, but Rosetta sings songs in a way that could be considered ungodly, her performances are often overtly sexual in manner and movement. Over the course of their rehearsal for their first show together (taking place in a funeral parlour) Marie and Rosetta share their stories, both personal, and those reflecting the racially divided time they are living in.

Marie and Rosetta is a powerful, yet personal piece, and Monique Touko’s direction is taut, no word or action is wasted. Beverly Knight gives a legendary performance, those vocals are simply incredible, and she makes Rosetta real – a woman who is conflicted by her public persona, but also her private thoughts, particularly when it comes to her faith. Ntombizodwa Ndlovu gives a star making performance as the principled, home loving Marie. Together, they create absolute magic, particularly on ‘Rock Me’ and the Cotton Club favourite ‘I want a tall skinny papa’.

The live band made up of black women musicians, are truly exceptional, with special mention needing to be made for Shirley Tettah, who comes forward for the most incredible guitar solo.

Marie and Rosetta is a must see, it rocks and it rolls and it soars due to the brilliance of the music and its stars.

Marie and Rosetta

Wolverhampton Grand, 27–31 May and Chichester Festival theatre 25 June to 26 July

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