Dulé Hill’s Lights Out Nat ‘King’ Cole Closes in Two Weeks

Final Fortnight For Dule Hill’s Nytw Run

Dulé Hill’s portrayal of Nat “King” Cole at New York Theatre Workshop is on the home stretch. With just two weeks left, Hill took to Instagram to share a heartfelt post (https://www.instagram.com/p/DLApMliR5VO/) celebrating the journey. “2 More Weeks Left!! Sharing this story of Mr Cole in @lightsoutplay @NYTW79 has been a moment in time that I will cherish for a lifetime,” he wrote, adding that the outpouring of love and support has left him “truly grateful.”

This production of Lights Out: Nat “King” Cole marks a major milestone for Hill, known for roles in The West Wing and Psych. Under the direction of Gaye Taylor Upchurch, the revival brings Israel Horovitz’s 2018 play back to the stage, weaving dramatic storytelling with Cole’s classic jazz and pop repertoire. The cast includes Daniel J. Watts as Cole’s close friend Bobby Shaw, supported by a live quartet that breathes fresh life into timeless tunes like “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa.”

Backstage Moments Shared On Instagram

Alongside his thank-you message, Hill shared a series of images from rehearsals and performances. In one snapshot, choreographer Jared Grimes works with Hill and Watts in a dance break, hinting at the show’s dynamic staging. Another frame captures Hill mid-song under moody lighting, sweat glistening—an intimate look at the stamina required to embody a music icon night after night.

These posts echo earlier Instagram updates from the production. An announcement that the show had been “extended through June 29th” appeared on Hill’s feed (https://www.instagram.com/p/DJo9He2tf01/), while a separate gallery (https://www.instagram.com/p/DJR6834JPnA/) celebrated VIP guests like Phylicia Rashad, George Faison, Nicole Ari Parker and Ben Vereen in the audience. Their presence underscores the theatre community’s embrace of this lavish revival.

The Man Behind The Role

Born May 3, 1975, Dulé Hill built his career with a blend of acting and dance. A Tony-nominated tapper from his stage debut in The Tap Dance Kid, he earned Emmy nominations as Charlie Young on The West Wing before delighting fans as Gus on Psych. Hill’s musical instincts made him a natural fit for Lights Out, where his smooth baritone and precise movement capture Cole’s legendary showmanship.

On screen and stage, Hill has demonstrated a knack for inhabiting real-life figures. With this production, he steps into the shoes of an American icon whose career spanned from jazz clubs in Chicago to sold-out concert halls worldwide. Critics have noted Hill’s emotional depth in nonverbal moments—his subtle expressions during Cole’s battle with the music industry add layers to the narrative beyond the songs themselves.

A Celebration Of Legacy

Lights Out: Nat “King” Cole isn’t just a concert—it’s a play that probes themes of race, fame and the cost of success. Horovitz’s script places the singer in a turning point moment as he prepares for a televised appearance, reflecting on his roots in the segregated South and his rise to stardom. Hill’s performance balances vocal brilliance with dramatic vulnerability, earning standing ovations and glowing reviews from outlets like The New York Times.

With only a handful of performances left, the production offers a rare opportunity to see an A-list actor in musical theatre. Tickets are still available for shows through early July. As Hill’s cast mates join him on the final dance numbers, weekend audiences will witness a portrait of Nat “King” Cole that blends nostalgia with fresh theatrical flair.

Hill’s Instagram post closes with a simple “🙏🏾✨ #NatKingCole,” a reminder of why this story endures nearly seven decades after Cole’s passing. From New York to touring stages in the near future, Dulé Hill’s journey with this role cements his place among performers who honor musical legacies while forging their own paths.

Trivia

Dulé Hill was a member of the cast of the Broadway production of 'After Midnight', which celebrated Duke Ellington's music.

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Reshmi Das

 

Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.

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