About 30 years ago, Sheldon Epps had an innovative idea for a unique show. He wanted to combine Duke Ellington’s music with William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” set in 1930s Harlem. “My goal was to highlight Black excellence, artistry, and joy,” said Epps, now 73. He sees Harlem as a magical place where such elements thrived and can thrive again.

During his tenure as associate artistic director at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, Epps launched “Play On!” in 1996. The show later moved to Broadway in 1997, featuring a stellar cast with Tonya Pinkins and André De Shields. Cheryl L. West, known for “Holiday Heart” and “Puddin ‘n Pete,” crafted the book for the musical.

Despite respectable reviews and Tony nominations for Pinkins and De Shields, “Play On!” struggled for attention and concluded after 61 performances.

In 1998, Epps sought a fresh Chicago production and reached out to Goodman Theatre artistic director Robert Falls. Falls, a fan of the Broadway cast recording, eagerly accepted the opportunity. Pinkins, De Shields, and newcomer Paul Oakley Stovall joined the Chicago staging, which became a hit according to Tribune critic Richard Christiansen.

Following a quiet period, Epps became the artistic director of the Pasadena Playhouse for 20 years, returning to freelance work in 2017. Now, “Play On!” is back in Chicago at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater with Epps directing once more. The cast consists of 16 members with Chicago locals and a six-piece band bringing Ellington’s tunes to life.

The Chicago performance follows a successful UK tour led by Michael Buffong. Buffong discovered the show at New York’s Lincoln Center library, inspiring renewed interest. Barbara Gaines, Chicago Shakespeare’s former artistic director, expressed her delight in seeing the show as one filled with love, joy, and music.

Epps enhanced the Shakespearean elements and intensified choreography by Edgar Godineaux to meet the demands of the new production. Although he picks projects selectively now, Epps remains passionate about theater and television, having directed shows like “Frasier” and “Girlfriends.”

In 2022, his work appeared at Chicago’s Studebaker Theater with “Personality: The Lloyd Price Musical,” aimed at Broadway amidst pandemic recovery. “I enjoy working in Chicago,” Epps said. “While money isn’t a necessity, I pursue projects that fuel my passion—such as this show.”

“Play On!” showcases Sept. 11 to Oct. 18 at the Courtyard Theater on Navy Pier. Visit www.chicagoshakes.com for more information.