‘Ain’t Misbehavin’’ @ Circle Theatre

Photos by Taylor Staniforth / TayStan Photography

—Rickey Wax

Jazz hums softly over the speakers as I make my way down the stairs into Circle Theatre’s lobby, and before I can see the stage, I feel it—the rhythm, the sway, the undeniable pulse of the Harlem Renaissance. The lobby of Circle Theatre has been transformed, and not just in the usual “oh, nice set” kind of way. The stage is in the center, completely surrounded by the audience. A stage in the round—intimate, immersive, impossible to escape (which is exactly how you want to experience Fats Waller’s music).

The lobby is now the Velvet Lounge, a swanky, Prohibition-era speakeasy where audience members don’t just watch the show—they become a part of it. Intimate two- and four-top tables dot the space, offering a cabaret-style experience with cocktail service that allows patrons to sip on their favorite drinks.

I settle into my seat (this was a preview performance before opening night), already tapping my foot and half expecting a flapper to swing by and drop a gin and tonic in my hand. The lights dim, the band kicks in, and suddenly it’s the 1920s all over again—back when jazz was more than just music. It was freedom, rebellion, joy, and, above all, a party.

And this show? Oh, it’s a party. The immersive setup, paired with a pre-show bar, makes it easy to feel like a high-rolling jazz enthusiast at the end of the Roaring Twenties.

For those unfamiliar, Ain’t Misbehavin’ is a vibrant revue celebrating the music of Thomas “Fats” Waller, the legendary jazz pianist and composer whose buoyant style defined the Harlem Renaissance. Waller wasn’t just a musician; he was a moment. A pianist, composer, and all-around showman who infused jazz with humor, heart, and just the right amount of mischief. His songs weren’t just about romance and rhythm—they were playful, clever, and often packed with a sly wink at the audience. He made jazz fun, and Ain’t Misbehavin’ captures that spirit perfectly.

Jazz in the 1920s wasn’t just a soundtrack—it was a revolution. Black musicians were taking over the clubs of Harlem, redefining American culture one beat at a time. And this show isn’t just about honoring that legacy—it’s about living in it, breathing it, and making sure you leave the theater with a little swing in your step.

The show, conceived by Murray Horwitz and Richard Maltby, Jr., first premiered in 1978 and became an instant sensation, thanks in part to its original Broadway cast, which included the incomparable Nell Carter. Her performance catapulted the production to Tony Award-winning heights, cementing its place in musical theater history. Since then, Ain’t Misbehavin’ has seen numerous revivals, proving over and over that Waller’s music is timeless.

Under the direction of Khira Hailey, with musical direction by Cherish Love Robinson and choreography by Kiandra Brooks, Circle Theatre’s production pays homage to Waller’s legacy and breathes new life into it. The talented ensemble, led by J. Dontray Davis as the jovial Fats, along with Davian Jackson, Janette Robinson, Crystal Williams, and Micaela E. Workman, keeps the energy high and the audience engaged from start to finish.

Davis embodies the spirit of Waller with effortless charm, bringing both playfulness and gravitas to numbers like Your Feet’s Too Big (my favorite) and Honeysuckle Rose. His comedic timing and vocal dexterity make him a joy to watch. Jackson shines in The Viper’s Drag, delivering a slinky, and smooth performance. Robinson, Williams, and Workman each have standout moments, particularly in group numbers like When the Nylons Bloom Again and I Can’t Give You Anything But Love, blending their harmonies with dazzling precision.

Choreographer Kiandra Brooks ensures that each number complements the rhythm and feel of the era, incorporating swing-era steps and smooth, expressive movements. The beauty of this production lies in its interactivity. With permission—and encouragement—to clap, snap, stomp, and dance, the audience becomes an extension of the performance itself. There’s a delightful looseness to the format; the performers speak directly to us, invite us into the party, and ensure that the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance isn’t just performed, but felt.

Of course, the immersive experience is elevated by the venue’s creative seating options. Depending on your ticket package, you might find yourself with VIP access (and a complimentary bottle of wine) at a two- or four-top table—or simply enjoying cocktail service throughout the evening.

By the time the cast takes their final bows, I realize something: I don’t want to leave. I want to grab a seat at the bar, order another round, and let the band play all night. But alas, I can’t. So instead, I step back into the real world, my head still swimming with melodies, my fingers still snapping in time. Circle Theatre’s regional premiere of Ain’t Misbehavin’ delivers an unforgettable evening of music and merriment.

WHEN: March 6-22, 2025
WHERE: 230 W 4th St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
WEB: circletheatre.com