The History and Harmony of Mama, I Want to Sing!

Setting the stage for a ceremonious encore, the highly anticipated 40th anniversary return of the musical production, Mama, I Want to Sing! to New York City is a grand celebration of the musical’s past successes, as well as a spotlight prime for new talent to stand centerstage while making history. Mama, I Want to Sing! returns to its origins at the Heckscher Theater in February, 2023 honoring Black History Month with a celebration of Black music, Black culture, Black theater, and Black voices. Music serves as the foundation of the story of  Doris Winter, a young girl aspiring to become a famous singer. Drawing from the real-life experiences of its author, Vy Higginsen and her sister Doris, the themes of "Mama, I Want to Sing!" inspires, educates, and unites audiences from all around the world. Exploring authentic cultural perspectives through the creative scope of performing arts helps bridge gaps by encouraging empathy, understanding, and appreciation of diverse experiences. Here's your invitation to witness the history and harmony of Mama, I want to Sing!

Thank you to the promotional team for Mama, I Want to Sing! for the courtesy of providing gratuitous accommodations for editorial purposes. This content may contain affiliate links.

The History and Harmony of Mama, I Want to Sing!

Set amidst the energy and excitement of Harlem, New York, the play follows Doris growing up singing in her church choir while dreams of stardom. Determined to follow her passion, Doris encounters challenges, struggles, and conflicts surrounding her family and faith as she pursues her goals.

Praised for its message of encouragement and celebration of African American culture and music, Mama, I Want to Sing! is the heartsong of Vy Higginsen, and her husband Ken Wydro. The power couple co-wrote, produced, and directed the original musical running for eight years. Making history with 2,800 performances at off-Broadway Heckscher Theater (renamed El Teatro at El Museo del Barrio) in East Harlem, the show was made into a movie, and toured for more than a thousand performances throughout the United States, Europe, the Caribbean, and Japan.

Discovered by musical legend, James Brown, Vy's sister, Doris Troy, singer and songwriter is the inspiration for Mama, I Want to Sing! Exploring themes of family, faith, love, and music, Mama, I Want to Sing! historically became the longest running Black off-Broadway theater musical in American theater history.  

Inspired by the global appeal of Mama, I Want to Sing!, Vy Higginsen launched her philanthropic vision for Mama! Foundation for the Arts. Fostering a creative space for marginalized children and communities to gain access to music and performing arts. Contributing free music programs and award-winning performance groups, including Sing Harlem, Mama Music Matters, and Wednesday Sings, Mama Foundation for the Arts strives "to re-establish Harlem as a pillar of Black artistic excellence". 

Experience the 40th anniversary of the phenomenal homecoming journey back to where it all began for Mama, I Want to Sing! This limited time engagement for kicking off during Black History Month is off-Broadway's hottest ticket!

Order your tickets today and consider purchasing tickets to donate or support Mama! Foundation for the Arts directly, as 100% of your gift will go toward the advancement of Black music, culture, theater, and voices! 

Tickets are on sale online and at the box office at 212-280-1045  Monday-Friday between 11am and 5pm

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