Rock Pioneer Tharpe's Story Lives On Stage

The groundbreaking music of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, a key influence on early rock and roll pioneers like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, is being introduced to a new generation through the West End play "Marie and Rosetta." This theatrical production shines a spotlight on Tharpe's significant, yet often unacknowledged, contributions to music.

Making her debut in the play is 19-year-old pianist Mia Odeleye, a finalist from Channel 4's "The Piano." Odeleye, who was inspired by her mother and later discovered African American classical musicians online, expressed her honour in performing Tharpe's story nightly. She hopes her portrayal would be something Tharpe herself would appreciate.

Tharpe, born in 1915, was a gospel and blues singer and guitarist who blended gospel music with jazz tempos on her electric guitar. She introduced gospel music to popular venues, profoundly influencing artists such as Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley.

"Marie and Rosetta" delves into the lives and challenges of Tharpe and Marie Knight, portraying them as a double act. The play's stars, Beverley Knight and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu, emphasize the authentic and powerful portrayals of these female artists. Music historian Dr. Samantha Ege noted that Odeleye's performance in "The Piano" illuminated the contributions of Black women in classical music, a rich history including figures like Florence Price and Margaret Bonds.

Odeleye believes that shows like "Marie and Rosetta" are vital for rectifying historical omissions caused by discrimination. She champions the revival of these influential artists' stories, expressing her gladness to be part of this movement. The play is currently showing at Soho Place until April 11th.