The Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park wants your theatergoing experience to be as enjoyable as possible. Following is a list of content within Ella that may be of concern to some members of our audience. Please understand that some information may give away surprises within the story. The information is provided to help you make informed decisions. Keep in mind, however, that the language and themes outlined below, taken out of context, may seem more offensive than they would be within the context of the actual play. This information will continue to be updated until the opening of the show to address any changes that may occur throughout the rehearsal process. Please check back often.

Ella is suitable for adult and most teenage audiences. It contains mature themes.

It’s 1966, and singer Ella Fitzgerald is preparing for one of the most important concerts of her career. As she and her fellow musicians finish with rehearsal the afternoon of the concert, her manager Norman throws her a curve: He’d like Ella to cut one of the usual numbers in order to add room for some “patter” with the audience. The concert is going to be taped for television, and Norman wants Ella to convince them that she’s doing alright following the death and funeral of a close family member.

This missive and the swell of emotions she’s already facing cause Ella to reflect on her past, from her childhood with an abusive stepfather and then the orphanage to getting a big break at the famous Apollo Theatre’s amateur night – only to be told she wasn’t welcome to continue performing there due to her homely appearance.

She also looks back on the men in her life — her managers, husbands and her son — her secrets and the love of music that ultimately made her soar. Featuring all of her most famous hits, including “A Tisket, A Tasket,” “How High the Moon,” “That Old Black Magic” and “They Can’t Take that Away from Me,” this swinging new musical invites audiences to fall in love all over again with the magic and soul of Ella Fitzgerald. Broadway veteran Tina Fabrique reprises her critically acclaimed performance as America’s “First Lady of Song.”

Ella contains only the very mildest use of adult language, including “dam*” (once), “whore” (once) and an expression invoking God’s name (“For Christ’s sake”).

None.

There is a reference to alcohol in the play.

When Ella is unable to get pregnant, her half-sister Frances gives her one of her own children, a fact they keep secret from the boy until Frances’ death.

Ella runs approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission.