March 28, 2002 11:48

LINCOLN'S PART!

The rapper struggles with class, poverty and identity in the acclaimed 'Top Dog/Underdog'...

Hip-hop superstar MOS DEF is hitting the stage in NEW YORK - but it isn’t for a musical performance.

The multi-talented performer is starring in the Broadway production of 'Top Dog/Underdog', a critically acclaimed new show written by playwright Suzan-Lori Parks.

The play focuses on two brothers ironically named after the US President Lincoln and his assassin Booth, who struggle with issues of class, poverty and identity.

The role of Booth, taken on by Mos Def for this production, was played by actor Don Cheadle in the show’s initial off-Broadway run.

Mos Def is no stranger to acting, having appeared on the big screen in Spike Lee’s 'Bamboozled' and, more recently, 'Monster’s Ball'. This is, however, his first time starring in a Broadway play.

Directed by George C. Wolfe, 'Top Dog/Underdog is currently showing in previews at the Ambassador Theatre, before officially opening on April 7.

The show runs until July 28, with Mos Def scheduled to star in all performances except those on April 13 and 28.