*Simply Heavenly* is a musical comedy that delves into the vibrant life and universal struggles within Harlem during its time. With a book and lyrics by Langston Hughes and music by David Martin, the musical is based on Hughes' novel *Simple Takes A Wife* and other "Simple" stories. It features an all-Black cast and weaves together elements of jazz, humor, and the everyday challenges faced by its characters, offering a rich tapestry of the community's
spirit and resilience.
The Central Conflict of Jess Simple
The core of *Simply Heavenly*'s plot revolves around Jess Simple, an honest and easy-going man caught in a romantic dilemma. Simple is trying to gather enough money to divorce his current wife, whom he no longer loves, so he can marry his new love, Joyce. However, his path is complicated by Zarita, a "hussy" determined to lead him astray. This central conflict drives much of the narrative, as Simple navigates his affections and responsibilities.
As the story unfolds, Simple's landlady informs him he must walk her dog without complaint or pay his rent, to which he reluctantly agrees. His eagerness to visit Joyce is clear, and she, waiting in her furnished room, voices her admiration for him through the song "Simply Heavenly." Simple promises to change his ways and accompany Joyce to church. Yet, after returning Joyce to her room, he finds himself drawn to Paddy's Bar instead of going home. There, Zarita persuades him to join her for an evening touring gin mills in New Jersey, highlighted by the song "Let Me Take You for a Ride."
Harlem Life and Supporting Characters
Beyond Simple's personal struggles, the musical paints a vivid picture of Harlem life. The background is filled with the sounds of jazz, the community's humor, and the common problems of paying rent and affording small luxuries like a shot of gin. Supporting characters contribute to this rich environment, each with their own stories and challenges.
Gitfiddle, a guitar-playing blues singer, enters the scene, determined to play the blues despite a broken string on his instrument, singing "Broken Strings." Later, Simple finds himself in a hospital bed after Zarita's car attempts to "climb the George Washington Bridge instead of crossing it." Back at the bar, Simple is out of the hospital but unable to sit down, disgusted with himself and broke, having spent his last nickel on a newspaper devoid of news about people of color, expressed in his "Flying Saucer Monologue." Gitfiddle laments the rise of jukeboxes over live music, but Mamie, a warmhearted woman beloved by all, assures him he can play the blues for her anytime, singing "Did You Ever Hear the Blues?" Mamie herself is constantly pursued by Melon, a watermelon vendor, and expresses her annoyance at his persistent attention in "When I'm in a Quiet Mood." Zarita also tries to entice the bartender, Hopkins, for a night out, unable to comprehend his refusal and recalling past acceptances in "Look for the Morning Star."
Themes of Love, Responsibility, and Community
The musical explores themes of love, responsibility, and the strength of community. Simple's journey to secure his divorce and marry Joyce is a central thread, but his progress is often hampered by his own choices and external temptations. Despite making headway in raising money for his divorce, he becomes jobless. Joyce, however, offers her support, lending him money and doing his laundry, singing "Gatekeeper of My Castle."
Simple's attempts to mend his ways are tested when Zarita and her friends interrupt his return to his room for her birthday celebration, singing "Let's Ball Awhile." Though Simple wants no part of it, he gets caught up in the fun until Joyce arrives to return his laundry. Zarita, feeling unwanted, takes the party elsewhere. The next morning, the bar reflects the sadness of Simple's troubles with Joyce, with the bartender trying to lift spirits with
