The Scottsboro Boys

Musical

Writers: David Thompson John Kander Fred Ebb

Overview

Show Information

Music
Category
Musical
Number of Acts
1
First Produced
2010
Genres
Drama, Comedy, Dark Comedy, Satire, Historical/Biographical
Settings
Simple/No Set
Time & Place
a minstrel show, and 1930s alabama
Cast Size
medium
Orchestra Size
Medium
Dancing
Heavy
Ideal for
College/University, Diverse Cast, Mature Audiences, Mostly Male Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes adult, late teen, young adult, early teen characters

Synopsis

In 1931, nine African-American teenagers, between the ages of 13 and 19 years old, were arrested and charged with the rape of two white women, while traveling through Alabama. With no evidence and no proof, these nine young men were convicted and sentenced to death. Based on this infamous case of miscarried justice, The Scottsboro Boys is a haunting and powerful portrait of bravery in the face of enormous adversity. In John Kander and Fred Ebb’s final, visionary collaboration, the now-dead minstrel form is revived and turned on its head, revealing profound truths about the history of our country in toe-tapping song and dance, and heart-wrenching ballads. Gutsy, passionate, and inspiring, The Scottsboro Boys is a remarkable, true story of a group of young men who changed the course of history.

Lead Characters


The Scottsboro Boys guide sections