Imitation of Life

A new musical with book by Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and music/lyrics by John Legend, exploring identity and the American dream through two single mothers navigating 1920s Atlantic City and 1

Why go

Nottage and Legend's collaboration marks a significant moment in new American musical theater—a limited six-week engagement featuring a full cast and live orchestra in a staged presentation that prioritizes the work itself, directed by Tony-nominated Whitney White.

What to expect

A staged musical presentation running approximately 2 hours 40 minutes with intermission, performed with full cast and live orchestra in The Shed's Griffin Theater. The work follows two single mothers—one Black, one White—and their daughters building a shared life across themes of race, class, identity, and legacy.

Things to know

• Book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage
• Music and lyrics by EGOT winner John Legend
• Directed by Tony Award nominee Whitney White
• Inspired by Fannie Hurst's 1933 novel and Universal's 1934 and 1959 film adaptations
• Limited six-week engagement (Nov 21–Jan 3)
• ASL-interpreted performance available December 20 at 1 pm

Plan your visit

ASL interpretation available December 20 at 1 pm; contact accessibility@theshed.org to purchase. Accessible seating available—email accessibility@theshed.org or call (646) 455-3494 in advance. Assistive listening devices available at theater entrance.

From the venue

A powerful new musical about identity, the American dream, and what we leave for future generations.