Big Mama! The Willie Mae Thornton Story

Jackie Richardson in Big Mama! Photo by Tim Matheson.

If you think "Hound Dog" was first performed by Elvis Prestly, it's time you were introduced to Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton, the remarkable American rhythm and blues singer who inspired the one and only Janis Joplin with her soulful sound. Lucky for fans of the genre, Big Mama is back, embodied by Canada's own Jackie Richardson, in Big Mama! The Willie Mae Thornton Story, a gritty and heartfelt production, presented by Victoria's Belfry Theatre, on stage now at the National Arts Centre.

Set in a 1970s night club on Christmas Eve, the story of the iconic blues singer is told by the larger-than-life lady herself, in between knock-em-dead performances of classic tunes such as "Wade In The Water," "Summertime," "Ball 'n' Chain" and "Sassy Mama!"

Backed by a talented band consisting of Kevin Belzner on drums, Ron Casat on keyboards and Tim Williams on guitar, Big Mama recalls her childhood in Alabama, the loss of her mother at 14 years of age, and her years touring with the Hot Harlem Revue, before settling down to record in Houston. A fiesty storyteller with a tough but fair attitude and a wicked sense of humour, the musician invites the audience to step into her rough-and-tumble world, taking the good with the bad as she reminisces about jamming with the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy.

Richardson shines as the thick-skinned, and surprisingly sensual Thornton, her voice lifting the audience to their feet to sing and dance and cheer her on. Big Mama! The Willie Mae Thornton Story is a powerful tribute to the orgins of blues. If you find yourself in the Ottawa area before May 11, take the time to check out this rocking performance.

Visit nac-cna.ca for more information and to buy tickets.