Like a comet that burns far too brightly to last, Janis Joplin exploded onto the music scene in 1967 and, almost overnight, became the queen of rock ‘n’ roll. A biographical musical, A Night with Janis Joplin!, will be performed at Le Petit Théâtre Du Vieux Carré, from May 12-29.

Joplin’s unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made her a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock. Fueled by such unforgettable songs as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” “Mercedes Benz,” “Cry Baby” and “Summertime,” A Night with Janis Joplin! is a musical journey celebrating the singer’s biggest musical influences, including icons like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith, all of whom inspired one of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest legends.

A preview performance will be staged on Thursday, May 12. All tier 2 and tier 3 seats are $25. The official opening is Friday, May 13. The show will be presented Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.

The cast includes Leslie McDonel as Janis Joplin, along with Tawny Dolly, Caitlyn Martin, Nattalyee Randall, Joanna Hale-McGill, and Paige McNamara. A Night with Janis Joplin is written and directed by Randy Johnson. Patricia Wilcox is the choreographer. Tawny Dolly serves as associate director and associate choreographer. 

The season at Le Petit will conclude with 2019 Tony Award-nominated Choir Boy, presented from June 16–26, written by Tarell Alvin McCraney, who won the 2017 Academy Award for his adapted screenplay of the film Moonlight. In the soaring, music-filled Choir Boy, the Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys is dedicated to the creation of strong, ethical Black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school’s legendary gospel choir. Can he find his way inside the hallowed halls of this institution if he sings in his own key?

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the theatre’s website.