A man and a woman sitting in chairs pretending to play the piano

Big Sexy: The Fats Waller Revue

Sep 5 - Sep 7
Director
Nate Jacobs
Music Director
Matthew McKinnon
Choreography
Donald Frison
Director
Nate Jacobs
Music Director
Matthew McKinnon
Choreography
Donald Frison
110 min
Musical
Adult Content (18+)

Thomas Wright “Fats” Waller was an American jazz pianist, composer, singer and comedic entertainer. He realized his dream of becoming a professional musician at age 15. His Harlem stride style influenced the sound of modern jazz piano. Nate Jacobs’ original tribute to this irrepressible artist features Waller’s signature songs, including “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Your Feet’s Too Big,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and many more.

Performance Dates

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Big Sexy: The Fats Waller Revue

Created, Adapted and Directed By Nate Jacobs

Thomas Wright “Fats” Waller was an American jazz pianist, composer, singer and comedic entertainer. He realized his dream of becoming a professional musician at age 15. His Harlem stride style influenced the sound of modern jazz piano. Nate Jacobs’ original tribute to this irrepressible artist features Waller’s signature songs, including “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Your Feet’s Too Big,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and many more.

Big Sexy: The Fats Waller Revue premiered on the WBTT Mainstage during the 2022 – 2023 season to great acclaim. Reviews included:

“With the twinkle in his eyes and his engaging smile, (Leon) Pitts had the audience in the palm of his hand…” Kim Cool, The Venice Gondolier

“…they are all performed with a joyous spirit that should put a smile on the face of even the most jaded audience members.” Jay Handelman, Sarasota Herald-Tribune

“… we’re entertained by a profusion of hits. Donald Frison’s choreography helps immeasurably, and Adrienne Pitts’ costumes (lots of sparkly gowns for the women and pinstripe suits for the gents) are fun to look at.” Kay Kipling, Sarasota Magazine

WHEN
Performances run Friday, August 22 – Sunday, September 7, 2025
Evenings 7:30 PM | Matinees 2:00 PM
Runtime

WHERE
The Donelly Theatre
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Campus
1012 N. Orange Ave
Sarasota, FL 34236

Free Parking Available:
– WBTT parking lot – 1012 N. Orange Ave
– Street Parkingon 10th Way in the direction of traffic
– Fabulous Finds Thrift Shop parking lot – 1038 N. Orange Ave (excluding Saturday matinees)

TICKETS*ADULT – $52STUDENT 25 & Under / ACTIVE MILITARY – $22

*Ticket price includes all applicable fees.
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Cast