Ledisi Brings Her R&B Storytelling to Broadway’s “Wanted”

Ledisi in a white blouse against a blue backdrop.

Ledisi is bringing her voice to a new kind of leading role. The R&B singer stars as Tallulah Clarke in “Wanted,” the Broadway musical beginning previews on October 15th at the James Earl Jones Theatre in New York. With opening night set for November 8th, the production marks a substantial new chapter in her work as a storyteller.

In an October 13th interview with Rated R&B, Ledisi described the move from her earlier Broadway understudy experience to a central role. She said the producers offered her the part, and she spoke about using rehearsals to learn, take risks and become the character. Her aim is for audiences to see Tallulah onstage, even when they recognize the voice.

The official production synopsis sets “Wanted” in Texas in 1893. Twin sisters Mary and Martha Clarke, Black women who pass for white, become outlaws while trying to protect their mother and their family’s future. Ledisi plays that mother, opposite Solea Pfeiffer as Mary and Liisi LaFontaine as Martha. Fellow R&B vocalist Luke James plays Elijah.

Angelica Chéri wrote the book and lyrics, with music by Ross Baum. Stevie Walker-Webb directs, and Chelsey Arce choreographs. For listeners who know Ledisi primarily through records and concerts, the musical offers a chance to hear her interpret a character’s circumstances inside a larger ensemble story.

Ledisi told Rated R&B that Broadway asks her to bring her full storytelling ability forward. She also described Luke James as a reassuring presence during the process. That combination of vocal experience and a willingness to keep learning gives this career move its interest: a seasoned singer is taking on work that still challenges her.

For anyone planning a trip, the theater is at 138 West 48th Street, and the production’s calendar lists the first preview at 8 p.m. on October 15th. Check the official performance calendar for available dates. PowerPage’s recent coverage of Nivea’s vocal training and audio-engineering work offers another look at the craft behind an R&B career.