Je’Caryous Johnson launches “Jason’s Lyric Live” 22-city tour first stop Houston

Je’Caryous Johnson transforms the beloved film Jason’s Lyric into an immersive theatrical experience. Based on the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture written by Bobby Smith, Jr., it will premiere at The Hobby Center in Houston, Texas, on February 13, 2025—just in time for Valentine’s Day week. This masterpiece kicks off a 22-city national tour.

On January 31, 2025, Johnson, a Houston native, and the cast held a press conference in the Bayou City. The ensemble cast looked just as youthful as they did when they first entered the entertainment industry. Allen Payne and Treach are the only two original cast members from the 1994 movie. Johnson shared his thoughts on the live adaptation of “Jason’s Lyric,” stating, “It’s represented well in this movie, and the stage adaptation is live and features music.” Many people may be interested in the comparisons being drawn between the film and the adaptation.

Just coming out to support and giving me love – Allen Payne

Allen Payne, who reprises his role as Jason—the role that made him famous, along with Gee Money in “New Jack City.” He has also played C.J. on Tyler Perry’s “House of Payne” in recent years. In mentioning Tyler Perry and Je’Caryous Johnson, Payne said he stepped away from Hollywood to work with Perry and Johnson years ago. In response to the press and audience members who are expected to attend the play, Payne expressed his gratitude, saying, “Just coming out to support and giving me love” was his way of acknowledging the support for “Jason’s Lyric Live.” Treach of Naughty by Nature fame mentions that the cast is truly a tight-knit family, and you will see that energy in the play.

From left to right: Allen Payne, Tyrin Turner, Je'Caryous Johnson, Eva Marcille, and Treach. Photo credit: BSM Media Group. — Houston, TX press conference for “Jason’s Lyric Live” on January 31, 2025. From left to right: Allen Payne, Tyrin Turner, Je’Caryous Johnson, Eva Marcille, and Treach. Photo credit: BSM Media Group.

The cast also features Eva Marcille (“All the Queen’s Men”) will portray Lyric, Tyrin Turner (“Menace II Society”) plays Josh, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs (“The Jacksons: An American Dream”) takes on the role of Maddog, and K. Michelle (“Love & Hip Hop” and chart-topping R&B artist) plays Marti. “Jason’s Lyric Live” promises to be a must-see cultural event. The play will premiere in Houston. For a full list of cities, and ticket information visit: JasonLyricLive.com