A True Showman On and Off Stage: James Monroe Iglehart's Journey from Aladdin to A Wonderful World as Louis Armstrong

 

On April 30, 2014, at the Tony Awards "Meet the Nominees" press reception at the Paramount Hotel in New York City, James Monroe Iglehart revealed the depth of his character. Nominated that year for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his electrifying role as Genie in Aladdin, Iglehart was navigating a bustling press room with his publicist, who made carefully planned stops with various media outlets. When he noticed that the New York Amsterdam News had been inadvertently passed over, Iglehart didn’t hesitate; he circled back to speak with me personally—a thoughtful gesture that left a lasting impression. Later that year, he not only took home the Tony Award but earned my respect as well.

Iglehart now co-directs and stars as jazz legend Louis Armstrong in A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical. The production, led by co-director Christina Sajous and director Christopher Renshaw with a book by Aurin Squire, offers an intimate look at Armstrong’s life—from his roots in New Orleans to his rise as a global icon—told through the perspectives of the women who helped shape his journey. With beloved songs like “What a Wonderful World” and “When You’re Smiling,” the musical brings Armstrong’s legacy to vivid life.

Critics have praised Iglehart’s portrayal for capturing Armstrong’s distinctive voice, presence, and charisma. Scenic and video designer Adam Koch’s set, with its shifting panels and immersive projections, creates a rich visual experience. Choreographer Rickey Tripp’s dynamic movement complements the energy of Armstrong’s music, while musical arrangements by Michael O. Mitchell and Annastasia Victory add new layers to familiar classics.

Supporting performances by Darlesia Cearcy, Dionne Figgins, Kim Exum, and Jennie Harney-Fleming as Armstrong’s wives deepen the narrative, with additional standout roles from Khalifa White, Brennyn Lark, and Ta’Rea Campbell. While some felt the chorus costumes could use refinement, this minor critique hardly detracts from the show’s overall impact.

             

In A Wonderful World, Iglehart delivers a performance that honors Armstrong’s legacy with authenticity, offering audiences a heartfelt tribute to one of jazz’s most enduring figures.