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See who stars in the world premiere of the hip-hop musical Young John Lewis
The new musical is written by the hip-hop and spoken language playwright Psalm 24 and features original music by Eugene H. Russell IV.
Michael Basil
Casey G Ford
Atlanta Theatre Costumes Showcase the World Premiere of a New Musical Young John Lewis Working with the John Andrillian Miles Lewis Foundation June 4-29.
Hip-Hop Speaking Word Playwright Psalm 24 features original music by Atlanta composer Eugene H. Russell IV, the Hip-Hop Musical examines a crucial decade of Rep. John Lewis’ early life. This work represents his journey from student activist to a leading leader in the civil rights movement by the time he was 28 years old.
The cast includes Michael Basil as the young John, as well as Sally Brown, Seko Campbell, Caleb Clarke, Lawrence Flower, Neil Gant, Brandin Jay, Alexandria Joy, Latrice Pace and Terrence J. Smith.
Thomas W. Jones II (I’ll pass something strange) is set to direct and choreography. The creative team also includes Dramaturg Adhae Moon, scenic designers Isabel and Moria Carly Clay, costume designer Jarrod Burns, lighting designer Ben Lawson, sound designer Matt Reynolds, property designer Caroline Cook and stage manager Gabby Perata.
“No one in American history would look up at this point than John Lewis,” Psalm 24 said in a statement. “His rebellious optimism, radical love and creative actions — especially during the pivotal year we focused on. Young John Lewis– An immediate and eternal example for all of us. I wanted to write this musical because John Lewis’ life is endlessly inspirational. His life can be used as a roadmap to help you navigate challenging times. His life was beautifully soulful. And if this musical foray into John Lewis’ life shines light on anything, I hope we all have the power to make great positive changes. ”
“The story of this show, a native of Atlanta and a child of parents who marched with Dr. King, resonates with me uniquely,” Russell added. “My love and couple for hip-hop culture and its music, this was a dream project for me. I look forward to encouraging all of us to lean towards activism by lifting up John Lewis’ legacy.”
Before his death in 2020, Lewis formed the Lewis Foundation for John and Lillian Miles, taking over his and his wife’s passion for life intentionally. “We are excited to work with theatrical costumes as a community partner. Young John LewisDetria Austin Everson, the foundation’s president and CEO, said in a statement. I am grateful to have seen his story come to life in this creative way! ”
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