Rhymes-n-Reasons is a heartfelt new musical that follows Lance and his daughter Lola as they navigate grief after Angel’s death—Lance’s wife and Lola’s mother—while uncovering hidden truths. Angel, the former owner of a beloved slam poetry bar, attempts to reveal a secret from beyond as societal pressures push father and daughter within to find peace of mind.

This work weaves a unique tapestry of slam poetry, spoken word, and musical genres, including jazz, R&B, blues, and gospel. Elisa Cornish, wrote the book and some of the poetry, and Paul Freeman, Shaheed Abdul-Azeez, Darin Johnson, and Timothy Thompson collaborated on the poetry and music.

 

REVIEWS:

”A beautiful musical about the pain of loss and the comfort of community.”

Jordan Elizabeth Henry – NPX New Play Network New Play Exchange

”I like this work a lot. It has a most unusual vibe – like nothing I’ve ever seen on the stage. I really like the sad, sad, sad love story. The grieving is visceral. The music is so moody. It appeals to me as a director. I’d want the staging to be as lyrical as the music and lyrics – almost mystical.”

Patrick Cuccaro – Working Title Playwrights Board of Directors