In ‘A Wonderful World,’ a Jazz Giant, Louis Armstrong, Comes Across as Smaller Than Life

James Monroe Iglehart, whose sunny charisma would seem naturally suited to portraying Armstrong, is not to blame; the main fault lies, as it often does in jukebox hagiographies, with the book.

©Jeremy Daniel
James Monroe Iglehart in 'A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical.' ©Jeremy Daniel

James Monroe Iglehart became a Broadway star 10 years ago playing the Genie in the original cast of “Aladdin.” The role, voiced in the Disney animated film by Robin Williams, called for a combination of comedic chops and sheer physical stamina — one production number found him singing while running around the stage for a solid eight minutes. Mr. Iglehart earned Tony and Drama Desk awards for his work.

Have an account? Log In

To continue reading, please select:

Limited Access

Enter your email to read for FREE

Get 1 FREE article

Continue with
or
Unlimited Access

Join the Sun for a PENNY A DAY

$0.01/day for 60 days

Cancel anytime

100% ad free experience

Unlimited article and commenting access

Full annual dues ($120) billed after 60 days

By continuing you agree to our
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Advertisement
The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  Create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use