The Kravis Center’s “Ain’t Too Proud”: A Toe-Tapping Tale of The Temptations

Growing up in a family with a strong appreciation for music and an enjoyment of songs across genres and decades, I recall loving The Temptations’ music from a young age. Since they’re one of Motown’s most iconic groups with a catalog full of chart-topping tracks, it’s safe to say that many people over many years had the same experience as I did! As the Kravis Center closes out its spectacular 2024-25 season, I could truly think of no better production to end it with than Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, running through June 29. Energetic, powerful, and heartfelt, this show will have audience members dancing in their seats throughout, whether they only know a few of the group’s songs or all 30+ that are featured in the show. “Get Ready” to immerse yourself in the unforgettable journey of The Temptations and celebrate their enduring legacy.

The story, with a book by Dominique Morisseau, direction by Des McAnuff, and music and lyrics by The Temptations themselves, primarily follows the five original Temptations—Otis Williams (Rudy Foster), Paul Williams (Bryce Valle), Melvin Franklin (Jameson Clanton), Eddie Kendricks (Lowes Moore), and David Ruffin (Josiah Travis Kent Rogers)—on their meteoric rise to fame and through their decades-spanning careers. The group is later joined by newer members, such as Dennis Edwards (Mikey Corey Hassel) and Richard Street (Cedric Jamaal Greene). As one of the group’s founders and its last surviving member, Otis also serves as narrator, constantly breaking the fourth wall to share The Temptations’ story with the audience. 

Over the years, The Temptations release hit after hit, cross paths with other musical legends such as Smokey Robinson (also played by Greene), Diana Ross, Florence Ballard, and Mary Wilson of The Supremes (played by Jasmine Barboa, Kaila Symone Crowder, and Reyanna Edwards respectively), and Tammi Terrell (also played by Crowder), to name a few, and balance the ups and downs of fame with those in their personal lives, all against the backdrop of an ever-changing world. 

It’s honestly impossible to pick a single standout performance from Ain’t Too Proud! As Otis often mentions during the show, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,”and while each member certainly shines on their own, there’s no denying that there is truly something special about this group as a unit, how they share the spotlight together. They never miss a beat, delivering those signature harmonies and dance moves with perfect precision. In their fabulous performances, you’ll recognize The Temptations’ most beloved songs (with arrangements by Kenny Seymour and orchestration by Harold Wheeler, complete with a fantastic live band). Some unforgettable hits include “My Girl,” “Get Ready,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone,” and Otis’s personal favorite, “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me),” among many others.

The choreography was another definite highlight for me. During its original Broadway run, Ain’t Too Proud was nominated for 12 Tony Awards, ultimately winning for choreography—and it’s easy to see why. Sergio Trujillo’s impressive work will have you wanting to dance in your seat in no time! Scenic design by Robert Brill, lighting design by Ryan O’Gara, sound design by Jeff Human, and production design by Peter Nigrini also play a crucial role in telling the band’s story, helping to create a variety of memorable moments. 

One of my favorite such moments was the depiction of Otis’s early trips to Detroit’s Fox Theatre as a young teen, where he first saw some of his favorite musical groups live in concert, many of whom later influenced The Temptations’ sound. Another standout includes the performance of “I Wish It Would Rain,” which functions as a moving tribute to the Civil Rights Era and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the show, with projections of news clippings and photographs from that time period. Additionally, I’d be remiss not to shout out the costume design by Sue Makkoo, from Paul Tazewell’s original designs. The costumes provide an effective visual representation of how the group changes over the years. They even accommodate for the performers’ constant movement throughout the show, allowing them to execute the choreography smoothly and effortlessly. 

It’s important to point out that Ain’t Too Proud doesn’t shy away from depicting the darker side of the group’s success, through its portrayal of heavier topics like addiction, domestic violence, mental health struggles, conflicts and betrayals within the group, and grief. Nonetheless, in spite of its less joyful moments, the story ultimately remains uplifting. Otis demonstrates how the music endures, and above all, The Temptations endure, accruing dozens of new members since the original quintet. Currently, around 24 members have been a part of The Temptations in the group’s history!

I’ll admit I love a good jukebox musical, but even if you aren’t typically a fan, you’ll absolutely enjoy Ain’t Too Proud. Its engaging format, entertaining musical numbers, and exciting performances make it a real showstopper! The Kravis Center has delivered an amazing season, and its final show just might be my favorite of the series. Don’t miss the chance to see it for yourself this summer!

Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations runs at the Kravis Center through June 29. Purchase your tickets here.