How a small musical about a Black queer theater usher became the toast of Broadway

CNN introduces readers to “A Strange Loop,” a groundbreaking musical that defies conventions and embraces the complexities of identity and self-discovery.

Written by former theater usher Michael R. Jackson, “A Strange Loop” tells the story of a theater usher named Usher who is writing a musical about his life. Drawing from Jackson’s personal experiences, the musical weaves a narrative that explores Usher’s struggles with self-loathing, family dynamics, and journey towards self-acceptance.

Despite leading the Tony Awards nominations with 11 nods, “A Strange Loop” stands out as one of the few original productions of the Broadway season. This musical offers a fresh and unique perspective, unlike productions relying on familiar intellectual properties.

The show’s raw and intimate portrayal of Usher’s life, including challenging scenes with his parents and a confronting sexual encounter, may surprise audiences. However, these moments tell an honest and authentic story that hasn’t been seen on Broadway before.

CNN spoke with director Stephen Brackett, who has been involved with the show for a decade, about its evolution from a complex idea to a Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece. Through workshops, concert performances, and its recent Broadway debut, the essence of “A Strange Loop” has remained consistent.

The musical’s influences range from indie music to the works of bell hooks and Stephen Sondheim, creating a unique blend of storytelling that resonates with audiences. Despite its avant-garde concept, the show maintains elements of traditional musical theater, offering a timeless narrative with universal themes.

Brackett emphasizes that, while deeply personal, Usher’s story contains elements that audiences from all walks of life can relate to. This universality and its groundbreaking approach to storytelling have contributed to the show’s acclaim and success.

As “A Strange Loop” continues to captivate audiences on Broadway, its journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representing diverse voices on stage.