For public-facing website language, this project is best described as having been developed through Live & In Color, with original direction by Devanand Janki and additional material by Devanand Janki. (playbill.com)


DESCRIPTION
A powerful musical portrait of Nina Simone tracing her journey from gifted classical pianist to iconic singer, activist, and cultural force. (goodspeed.org)

SYNOPSIS
Little Girl Blue explores the life, artistry, brilliance, and pain of Nina Simone, following her journey from prodigious musician to legendary voice of the civil rights movement. The piece is both intimate and theatrical, celebrating Simone’s music while illuminating the emotional and political realities that shaped her life and legacy. (goodspeed.org)


DEVELOPMENT HISTORY
The show was developed by Live & In Color, with Devanand Janki listed as Artistic Director in development materials. Goodspeed’s official page states that the premiere production was presented by George Street Playhouse on February 1, 2019. (goodspeed.org)

It later had a Goodspeed Musicals production in 2021, followed by an Off-Broadway run at New World Stages in 2022. (goodspeed.org)

The official site describes the George Street production as sold out and record-breaking. (littlegirlblue.nyc)

Awards / Nominations
Off Broadway Alliance Award — Best Solo Performance
(Laiona Michelle) (offbroadwayalliance.com)
Lucille Lortel Award nomination — Outstanding Solo Show (playbill.com)
Outer Critics Circle Award nomination — Outstanding New Off-Broadway Musical (littlegirlblue.nyc)
Press Highlights

“A riveting tribute to Nina Simone.” — The New Yorker (newyorker.com)

“Beautifully directed by Devanand Janki.” — The New Yorker (newyorker.com)

“A sure fire hit.” — BroadwayWorld (broadwayworld.com)

“Inspired direction by Devanand Janki.” — BroadwayWorld (broadwayworld.com)

“A one-woman storm.” — Theatrely (theatrely.com)

“Laiona Michelle dazzlingly channels Nina Simone.” — TheaterScene (theaterscene.net)