Black-Led Broadway Must-Sees: Ayo Edebiri, Tessa Thompson & More

February 4, 2026 Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor Entertainment

Here’s a breakdown of the Broadway shows mentioned in the text, with key details:

1. The Exoneration

* Theatre: James Earl Jones Theatre
* Starring: Thompson as jackie
* Synopsis: Based ⁣on the true story of Nick Yarris,who was exonerated after two decades on⁣ death row.​ Focuses on⁣ a prisoner volunteer and an inmate.
*​ Dates: previews begin March 19, Opens April 15.

2. Cats: The​ Jellicle Ball

*⁤ Synopsis: A queer-friendly reimagining of the classic⁤ musical, staged in drag ballroom ‍culture.
* Starring: André de Shields (returning from ‍the 2024 premiere)
* Dates: Previews begin ⁣March 18,Opens April 7,2026.

3. Joe ⁣Turner’s Come ​and Gone

* Director: Debbie Allen
* Playwright: August Wilson
*⁤ Starring: Taraji P.Henson and Cedric the Entertainer
* Synopsis: Set in a Pittsburgh boarding⁤ house in 1911,exploring the lives of guests ​after emancipation.
*⁢ Opening Night: April 25.

4. Dreamgirls

* No details‌ are provided about this show in the ‍text. it is simply mentioned as​ another upcoming ​production.