Here's Why You Should See "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom"
The Mother of the Blues is headed back to the stage where it all started. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom opens at the Springer Theatre on January 23 at 7:30 PM. Set in a 1927 Chicago recording studio, where the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey gathers with her band to record her latest songs. The play explores themes of race, power, and exploitation in the music industry as tensions rise between Ma, her ambitious band members, and the white producers seeking to profit from her talent.
If you haven’t made plans to come see this award-winning production, here are five great reasons to buy tickets today.
1. Ma Rainey’s Connection to the Springer
Did you know that the “Mother of the Blues” began her illustrious career right here at the Springer Theatre? Gertrude “Ma” Rainey first performed in Columbus, Georgia, and her incredible talent took root on our stage. By seeing Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom at the Springer, you’re experiencing a piece of history, paying homage to a trailblazer who started in our community and went on to revolutionize American music.
2. Legendary Collaborations
Ma Rainey’s powerful voice and commanding stage presence brought her into the orbit of some of the most celebrated musicians of her time. She worked alongside artists like Louis Armstrong, Thomas Dorsey, and blues protege Bessie Smith. Their contributions helped define the sound of an era and cemented Ma Rainey’s legacy as a foundational figure in blues and jazz. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom play brings her artistry to life, giving audiences a chance to appreciate the cultural icons she influenced.
3. LGBTQ+ Trailblazer
Long before LGBTQ+ advocacy entered the mainstream, Ma Rainey was openly queer in a society that often silenced such identities. She defied conventions in her music and her life, expressing her truth through songs like “Prove It on Me Blues,” and her rumored relationship with Bessie Smith. Her courage and authenticity resonate powerfully in August Wilson’s play, making her story as relevant today as it was a century ago.
4. Minority Business Pioneer
Ma Rainey wasn’t just a performer—she was a savvy entrepreneur. She owned two theaters, managed her own touring company, and was one of the first Black artists to demand fair compensation for her work. This business savvy is woven into the narrative of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, showcasing her determination to control her art and legacy in an industry often stacked against her.
5. August Wilson’s Storytelling Legacy
August Wilson’s plays are celebrated for their lyrical dialogue and profound exploration of the African American experience. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is no exception, immersing audiences in the world of 1920s Chicago with a story that is as compelling as it is thought-provoking. Directed by Springer Artistic Director Keith McCoy with care and passion, this Springer Theatre production captures Wilson’s brilliance and brings it to the stage in electrifying, emotional detail.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom runs January 23 through February 2 on the Springer's MainStage. As an added incentive, the Springer offers the Curtain Call ticket discount program, providing significantly discounted tickets to last-minute attendees. Tickets, showtimes, and discount information are available by calling the box office at (706) 327-3688, here on the website, or in person at 103 10th Street, Columbus, Georgia.