Memphis is a planned destination in the play rather than a staged setting: Ma Rainey intends to take Dussie Mae there while traveling with the show, and contrasts its clothing options with those available in Chicago.

A Destination in the Touring Plan

During the recording-session wait, Ma Rainey tells Dussie Mae that she will take her shopping the next day, before taking her to Memphis. The plan places Memphis on the route of their work and travel, though the evidence does not specify when they will arrive or what will happen there.

Clothing, Travel, and Care

Ma Rainey connects the shopping trip to Dussie Mae’s appearance on the road: she wants her to look well dressed while traveling with the show. She says Chicago has clothes that cannot be found in Memphis, making the contrast practical rather than a description of Memphis itself. Dussie Mae also mentions that her shoes hurt; Ma Rainey tells her to get shoes that fit, extending her attention to the demands of travel and dress.

Limits of the Depiction

Memphis remains offstage in the available evidence. It is identified through Ma Rainey’s intention to travel there with Dussie Mae, not through a scene, a description of its residents, or any account of events in the city. Its significance here is as an anticipated stop in the performers’ itinerary and a point of comparison with Chicago.