Laura and Samara spend their days as non-profit unicorns and fill every spare minute exploring the world of musical theatre as BFFs (that’s Broadway Friends Forever). Follow @bffs613 on X, Instagram and Facebook.
Broadway Across Canada has given the audiences of Ottawa a gift this holiday season. They’ve brought the production of Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations to the National Arts Centre stage for the last week of December. It follows the story of The Temptations rise to fame and the successes, failures, and conflicts that came along the way.
The famous quintet is known for some of the biggest Motown hits of the ’60s, ‘70s and beyond, including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” among many others. Coming up in a tumultuous time in the United States, forming in Detroit in the early ‘60s, the group’s path to stardom was anything but smooth. It’s a story of brotherhood and the challenges that come with that. But above all, it leaves audiences with joy and hope about where the difficult moments can lead you. And of course, there’s some incredible music along the way.
Photo by Emilio Madrid
It’s difficult to single out any one actor because the entire cast is extremely talented—the singing, dancing and acting are all superb. The show opts for a minimal set to focus on the music and cast. Ain’t Too Proud packs in a lot of history and songs, so expect to hear all your favourite jams, though sometimes only in smaller segments rather than full songs, for a wonderful flyover of the story of their journey.
There was a lot of toe-tapping, clapping, and even a few trying to sing along throughout the show which we knew meant the audience was into it. (Theatre note: don’t sing out loud during performances though. The audience has paid to hear the professionals, not you!) And how can you not be into it? Even if you didn’t grow up with this music, it’s such a part of popular culture that you’ve certainly heard handfuls of their catchy songs—covered by other artists or in movies and commercials.
An immensely talented cast brings a wealth of The Temptations top-of-the-charts hits to life, along with smooth dance moves and a powerful story. So whether it’s as a gift for a friend, family member, or just a treat for yourself, you won’t regret spending your holidays with Ain’t Too Proud.
Ain’t Too Proud runs until December 31 at the National Arts Centre. Evening performances are at 8 p.m., except Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Matinees are on Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 1:00 p.m. The show runs for 2 hours and 30 minutes with an intermission. Tickets start at $41.
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