On Sunday, Nov. 10, Reeling, in partnership with the DuSable Museum of African American History, premiered Moms Mabley: I Got Something to Tell You, a documentary about the life and influence of lesbian African-American comedienne Loretta Mary Aiken, known by the stage name Moms Mabley. The film screened in the DuSable Museum’s Ames Auditorium. It is slated to air on HBO later this month.
Mabley, who made a start on the vaudevillian “chitlin’ circuit,” is known for her influential stand-up comedy and initial fame during her tenure in Harlem’s Apollo Theater. She was known for her characteristic persona as Moms, and stage attire in a floppy hat and floral-print housedress.
The film, which Whoopi Goldberg directed, recounts Mabley’s career and interviews famous contemporary comedy and entertainment figures, such as Bill Cosby, Kathy Griffin, Sidney Poitier and Joan Rivers, about Mabley’s influence and impact.
The Legacy Project and Coalition for Justice and Respect also co-sponsored the event. According to Lori Cannon, who spoke at the event on behalf of the Legacy Project, Mabley had been nominated this year for a Legacy Walk installment.
DuSable Museum External Affairs Director Bonnie DeShong told Windy City Times she loved having the screening at the DuSable Museum.
“The DuSable museum represents all people, and Reeling is opening doors,” she said. “They’re letting people know we’re not that far at all.”
Reeling runs through Nov. 14.