Broadway has an uncanny ability to take real stories and transform them into unforgettable experiences. Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations is a shining example of this, a Tony Award®-winning musical that serves as a rhythmic odyssey through the captivating journey of The Temptations, the iconic R&B group that emerged from the streets of Detroit to become legends of music history.

The heart of Ain't Too Proud beats with the extraordinary saga of The Temptations, a group that created an astonishing 42 Top Ten Hits, with 14 of them reaching number one. Their journey from obscurity to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is an inspiring narrative that unfolded against the backdrop of the turbulent civil rights era in the United States.

This Broadway sensation is a symphony of sound, featuring the Grammy®-winning songs that made The Temptations a household name, including classics like "My Girl," "Just My Imagination," "Get Ready," and "Papa Was a Rolling Stone." With their electrifying dance moves and soulful harmonies, The Temptations created a legacy that Billboard Magazine recognized by naming them the greatest R&B group of all time in 2017.

While Ain't Too Proud pays tribute to The Temptations' musical prowess, it equally emphasizes the powerful themes of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and the challenges that threatened to tear the group apart. Set against a backdrop of civil unrest in America, the narrative unfolds with heart and authenticity.

Ain't Too Proud made its Broadway debut in March 2019, immediately breaking box office records at venues like Berkeley Rep, The Kennedy Center, and Toronto's Princess of Wales Theatre. The success of this production is a testament to the collaborative genius behind the scenes, with a script penned by Kennedy Prize-winning playwright Dominique Morisseau, direction by two-time Tony Award® winner Des McAnuff, and choreography by Tony Award winner Sergio Trujillo. This creative team brings The Temptations' untold story to life with spellbinding authenticity.

Behind the scenes, a talented crew contributes to the visual and auditory experience of Ain't Too Proud. This includes Tony Award nominee Robert Brill (scenic design), Tony Award winner Paul Tazewell (costume design), Tony Award winner Howell Binkley (lighting design), Tony Award winner Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound design), and others. The production seamlessly weaves projection design, hair and wig design, fight direction, and music coordination into a captivating tapestry.

The tour of Ain't Too Proud is a production of epic proportions, produced by Ira Pittelman and Tom Hulce, in association with Stephen Gabriel. General management and production management are handled by Work Light Productions, ensuring that the magic of Broadway is delivered to audiences across the country.

Elijah Ahmad Lewis, a multi-award-winning entertainer, takes center stage as David Ruffin, one of The Temptations' most iconic members. Lewis's portrayal is not just an impersonation but a heartfelt homage to the charismatic frontman. His dedication to embodying Ruffin's essence shines through in every electrifying performance.

As Ain't Too Proud continues its journey to Calgary, it serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of music to inspire, unite, and ignite change. The music of The Temptations is a timeless treasure, and the themes explored in the production resonate with contemporary audiences, underscoring the enduring relevance of their story.

Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Ain't Too Proud. Performances will take place at the Alberta Jubilee Auditorium from September 19 to 24, 2023. Get ready to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds and stirring stories that shaped The Temptations. It's more than a Broadway show; it's a harmonious testament to the indomitable spirit of The Temptations and their lasting legacy in the world of music.

Naureen Othi