The show is at the Studebaker Theater in Chicago's Loop starting this weekend, starring T.J. Wilkins. The actor explained to ABC7 why it's getting rave reviews wherever it plays.
"I am so excited to be here presenting '44,' it just feels like magic," Wilkins said. "I've had the opportunity to get President Obama's background here in Chicago, reading his book, 'Dreams from My Father,' and he speaks about this city with so much love and admiration, and it feels really good to be here. I'm excited and I'm ready to get it on."
Wilkins said he has always admired Obama.
"In 2008, when he was running, that was the first election... that I was eligible to vote in," Wilkins said. "I was so excited, a young college kid ready to get out there."
The actor explained he is not specifically doing an Obama impersonation in the musical.
"Definitely wanting to give the essence of the man, and put my own little spin on it. In real life, our President Obama can be a little serious, very stoic, cool calm and collected, in this version our President Obama sounds like Marvin Gaye," Wilkins said. "Obviously one of the things we don't shy away from is race. It was a big part of why a lot of people supported him, and why others did not support him. We approach everything from a spirit of love and a spirit of truth."
Wilkins hopes the former president will soon see the musical.
"So many people who worked for him in the White House, and even here in Chicago, have come to see it and given it their seal of approval. I'm optimistic it will be no time before the president and first lady come to see it," Wilkins said. "It feels like I have a battery pack on my back, knowing that we're in the city that is responsible for giving the nation our first Black president. Remember the good times and be inspired to make new great memories, that's why you gotta come see the show."
"44 The Musical" begins previews at the Studebaker Theatre Saturday, and it runs through September 21.
President Obama's former personal aide, Reggie Love, saw the show. Wilkins said he thought it was great, and that the cast hits all the right notes.