Fashion icon Marilyn Monroe and legendary singer Ella Fitzgerald probably had one thing in common and that was probably being human. Think about it. What would they have talked about? What other common thread could they have shared? Author of “Obama Music” and playwright Bonnie Greer decided to explore this topic through creating a play entitled, “Marilyn and Ella.”

When asked on BBC News, “Did these two ladies have anything in common?” Greer responded: 

“Yes they were both poor and came from sexually abused childhoods. Ella lost her mother very young and Marilyn’s mother was in and out of mental institutions. Both girls were terribly ambitious but were pigeonholed: Marilyn the dumb blonde and Ella the girl who always made you smile. Nothing deeper than that.”

Directed by Colin McFarlane (whom is the first black British director, actor and producer to use his own money to be in the West End, which is mainstream professional theatre in London), this play takes a stab at the un-likely friendship between these two iconic women. 

Come to find out, Monroe supported the progress of the Civil Rights Movement and Ella Fitzgerald was one of her favorite musicians. The story unfolds a fascinating concept of love, unity, self-discovery, womanhood and passion. 

The show is playing at the Apollo Theatre in London this month and Greer hopes to get the show on U.S. stages sometime soon. 

According to Anointed Productions on YouTube: ”The play tackles the challenges of being a Black musician in the 50′s and how Marilyn’s influence got Ella Fitzgerald a gig at whites only McCombe Club.”

Check out Greer talk about her inspiration behind the play:

DrJays.com Live! salutes these two women for their style and fashion, as well as their unforgettable stories and contributions to the arts.

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