What defines a legend?
I'd say it's someone who perseveres and makes a lasting impact in a dynamic and exciting way.
In that way, this show succeeds.
I had the privilege of seeing an artist have almost everything go around them. A lesser artist would be shaken, or frazzled, or discombobulated - but not Tymisha Harris.
Embodying Legends of Black excellence, she seamlessly weaves between a cacophony of acts a lesser talent wouldn't dream to attempt.
From Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Josephine Baker to modern acts like Tina Turner and Beyonce, she ably carries the show on her shoulders and manages to craft something dynamic, engaging and enthralling.
Despite being hindered by a litany of woes (to a nearly comical degree), Harris never had her shine dulled by the experience. Her effervescent spirit simultaneously put the audience at ease and created a space where she could play in the chaos, and rise above it.
The performances are dynamic and interesting with each of them displaying her control and skill flawlessly.
My only real critique of the show is that the earlier songs do tend to blend together with a number of ballads - all excellent - in a row. The message is so good and necessary dealing with racism and the long shadow that has been cast over society as a whole - but to help mix it up, could potentially have included a song or two from modern artists to show that the battle continues? Songs like Beyonces Formation comes to mind - but that's a minor critique and the spotlight on so many of my personal old favorites are a delight.
Maybe include Ella in the future? Maybe?
Despite this, Legends is not a show to be missed. Thoroughly delightful and exciting, held together by an enigmatic performance who embodies her performances to an extreme polish.