9/26/2023
E. Clayton Cornelious enjoys discussing his starring role in “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations” — especially when he quotes what the group’s founder Otis Williams says of the Broadway musical: “We never danced as hard as you guys danced.”
Cornelious, who plays group member Paul Williams in the show’s national tour, considers this a high compliment.
Earning a Tony Award for Best Choreography, “Ain’t Too Proud” takes the essence of the Temptations’ fluid, rhythmic movements and elevates it, he says, delivering athletic, high-energy dancing that keeps audiences mesmerized.
“We are paying homage, but adding a bit of a modern flare,” explains Cornelious, who also performed in the show throughout its run on Broadway. “Giving this choreography a theater spin adds excitement for all to witness.”
It also features a riveting storyline, following the extraordinary rise of the Temptations from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Above all, the musical showcases the beloved hits of this legendary group, including “My Girl,” “Get Ready” and “Just My Imagination.”
“If you want to see a great musical about an iconic musical group with a talented cast that is singing, dancing, and acting at the highest level, you will not be disappointed,” he says.
Delivering Famous Melodies with a Message
This show resonates strongly with audiences for many reasons, Cornelious says.
The Temptations’ melodies — which include a stunning 42 Top 10 hits — remain hugely popular today, he points out, even decades after they were first recorded.
The musical not only showcases these musical staples, he adds, but also encourages audience participation, with viewers often singing and dancing along.
“All male groups have been emulating the Temptations for decades, and they were one of the first to pave the way,” Cornelious says. “Their music is undeniable, and that's why their music is still popular.”
The show also focuses on political conflict and racial tensions that remain relevant today, he notes.
“The Temptations rose to stardom during the civil rights movement,” he says. “This show reflects everything they dealt with during that time.”
An Actor’s Personal Story
Portraying the group’s challenging struggle to success has proven a personal journey for Cornelious, he says.
By the end of this national tour, he will have worked on the show longer than any other actor in the musical’s history, he explains.
“It has impacted my life more than anyone will know — personally, spiritually and financially, as I’m also an investor on this wonderful empire,” he says, adding that his investment reflects how much he believes in the musical’s impact.
This fulfills a family ambition, he adds, as his father was a tremendous Temptations fan.
“I’m getting to live out his dream on this show,” Cornelious says.
He hopes audiences will gain as much from the production’s inspiring story and energizing music as he has.
“This show appeals to all cultures,” he says. “It was the music of a time when America and the world was changing. It seems fitting currently, because those same changes are still ongoing.”
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