The Musical Fails to Address Louis Armstrong's Struggles with Race

A new Broadway musical explores the life and music of Louis Armstrong, showcasing some of his most famous songs. While the production attempts to highlight various aspects of Armstrong's life, including his experiences with race and organized crime, the narrative feels disjointed and incomplete. Relationships depicted in the show lack depth, particularly concerning Armstrong's marriages and emotional connections with significant women in his life. The musical touches on themes of racism but does not delve deeply into their lasting impacts on Armstrong, leaving aspects of his character unexamined. Despite its shortcomings, the show offers moments that resonate, especially for devoted fans of Armstrong's music.