★ 2026 Jeff Award Nomination ★
The Jackie Wilson Story
March 7 – April 26, 2026 · Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N Clark St, Chicago
The story of “Mr. Excitement.”
Jackie Taylor’s signature musical biography brings Jackie Wilson roaring back to life — the voice, the moves, the heartbreak, and the hits that made him one of the most electrifying performers in American music.
In the 2026 golden anniversary revival, Jaitee Thomas stepped into Mr. Excitement’s shoes — a performance that earned him a Jeff Award nomination.
Details at a Glance
2026 run: March 7 – April 26 (closed)
Written by: Jackie Taylor
Starring: Jaitee Thomas as Jackie Wilson
Venue: Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
Missed it?
The 50th anniversary season continues — Men of Soul (5 Jeff Award nominations) is on stage through August 2.
Men of SoulA quarter century of Mr. Excitement.
2000 · The Premiere
The Jackie Wilson Story premieres at Black Ensemble Theater and becomes an instant phenomenon.
2002 · The Nation
A highly successful national tour carries the show across the country — including New York’s legendary Apollo Theater.
2012 · The Homecoming
The Jackie Wilson Story opens the brand-new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center on Clark Street.
2026 · The Honor
The golden anniversary revival earns a Jeff Award nomination — a quarter century after the premiere.
A 2026 Jeff Award nomination.
At the 58th anniversary Equity Jeff Awards — Chicago theater’s highest honor — Jaitee Thomas was nominated for Performer in a Principal Role — Musical for his portrayal of Jackie Wilson. It’s one of six Black Ensemble nominations this year, alongside five for Men of Soul. Winners are announced September 14, 2026 at the Harris Theater.
See all six nominationsThe anniversary season rolls on.
Two nominated productions already — and the year isn’t over.
See What’s Playing