West Coast Black Theatre Troupe kicks off new season with tribute to jazz legend Duke Ellington

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The sounds of jazz, dazzling costumes and high-energy performances are taking center stage in Sarasota as the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe prepares to open its new mainstage season with Sophisticated Ladies, a musical celebration of legendary composer and bandleader Duke Ellington.The production kicks off the theater’s new season, themed Rhapsodies of Rhythm, bringing audiences a journey through the music and cultural influence of one of jazz’s most iconic figures.ABC7’s Madison Glaser and Summer Smith sat down with West Coast Black Theatre Troupe founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs to discuss the upcoming production, the work happening behind the scenes and why preserving Ellington’s legacy remains so important.“We need a little music right this very moment,” Jacobs said, explaining the inspiration behind this season’s theme.The theater previously staged Sophisticated Ladies in 2005, with Jacobs performing in the lead role. More than two decades later,