Where's Papa Ray's Money?

The Million Dollar Question

Get ready to experience a whirlwind of emotions with the musical, Where’s Papa Ray’s Money?, by Nephew Tommy, coming to The Theatre at the Frank Erwin Center on February 12! This wonderful musical, which was created in Dallas, Texas, has received much praise from other performing arts centers. The Murphy Fine Arts Center describes it best when stating that this is “a new play that will take you on a ride that is dramatic, comedic and musical…full of twists and surprises.”

Now you’re wondering, who is “Nephew Tommy?” Well, “Nephew Tommy” is none other than Thomas Miles himself. Mr. Miles began doing plays after graduating from Texas A&M, and was quite recognizable in the early stages of his acting career. He stayed with the touring company, which he joined after college, for 10 years. During those 10 years, Miles also kept very busy during his off time with stand-up comedy. Over time, he made some connections with his touring friends and one of them knew none other than Luther Vandross. It turned out that Mr. Vandross needed someone to perform an opening act for his show. Miles was the chosen one to do so, and after one performance, Vandross fired his other options and hired Miles for his tour. After the first tour was over, Vandross enjoyed Miles so much that he signed him on for another three years!

After such a great beginning to his career, Miles is now known for his hilarious and clever, sold out, stand-up acts which he performs all over the country. However, these aren’t just any comedic performances; they are entertaining shows because of a well-known character that Miles plays named “Nephew Tommy.” According to Miles, “Nephew Tommy represents the common guy, a guy that is trying to rise up in the world. My character loves plus size women and is always screwing up, which causes his uncle to reprimand him constantly. I like to think of him as the lovable loser of my shows.”

Throughout this duration of stand-up comedy and radio shows, Miles wrote the musical Where’s Papa Ray’s Money? He originally work-shopped the musical in Dallas, Texas and is now taking it on the road. The play is about a family dealing with rough times and trying to pull it together by working with each other to answer the million dollar question. “Papa Ray” has passed away and his spirit comes back to tell the family that his life savings are hidden in his house, but he won’t tell them where. The only way a family member can claim the massive inheritance is to have all of the family members spend two days together in the home! The musical is at times dramatic, but is mostly known for the comedic aspect. It is sure to be an event that you do not want to miss! Make sure to join in the fun and laughter at The Theatre at the Frank Erwin Center on February 12!