The Temptations stand as the foremost R&B group established by Motown and Berry Gordy. The original lineup included Otis Williams, Paul Williams, Eddie Kendricks, David Ruffin, and Melvin Franklin. Over time, the group has seen 27 members, with Jawan M. Jackson, known for portraying Melvin Franklin in the musical "Ain't Too Proud," now being part of The Temptations. Otis Williams continues to perform with the group.

"Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations," which secured a Tony Award for choreography, graced the stage at the Hobby Center for a week. The show's sets sport a subdued color palette predominantly blues and mauves for costumes and lighting, meticulously crafting a more realistic and dramatic ambiance. These adaptable sets smoothly transition between scenes, effectively capturing each successive decade right before the audience's eyes. The dialogue interwoven between the characters accentuates life's profound moments, harmonizing seamlessly with the music. Classics like "My Girl," "Ain't Too Proud to Beg," and "Can't Get Next to You" illuminate every phase of their lives throughout the play/musical.

In an interview with Houston Style Magazine, Michael Andreaus (portraying Otis Williams) and E Clayton Cornelius (enacting Paul Williams) - both original Temptations members - expressed their honor in embodying the musical interpretation of their characters, fully embracing each individual's life journey. Michael Andreas underscored the authenticity of the Temptations' sound, achieved by honing their harmonies without musical accompaniment. E Clayton Cornelius, an inaugural member of the Broadway cast, shared his sense of privilege to be a part of history, introducing a fresh audience to the legacy of The Temptations. Moreover, the collaborative effort between Otis Williams' book and Dominique Morisseau's creative input infuses drama and music into a distinctly American narrative. The anticipation is palpable for both Michael and E. Clayton Cornelius, who eagerly anticipate performing "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations" in their hometowns.

Music has been intertwined with this writer’s life since my teenage years, accompanying me through various stages. Memories such as Dennis Edwards casually sitting on the couch upon my return from school, the Jackson Five joining us for lunch on a Saturday, and Tina Turner extending an invitation to her Astrodome show during a TSU/Grambling game, all highlight the profound impact of these musical legends. To witness a new generation embrace the life stories of these luminaries through Broadway musicals is truly remarkable. The Hobby Center stands as the host for three iconic Broadway shows: "Ain't Too Proud," "MJ," and the Tina Turner narrative, all converging in Houston, the second-largest theater district in the US.

For more information, visit thehobbycenter.org.