TV: First Look at Highlights of Black Ensemble Theater's ONCE UPON A PEOPLE

By: Dec. 10, 2013
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Black Ensemble Theater Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor invites audiences to share in the magic of the holiday season with the world-premiere production of Once Upon A People: A Dancesical, written and directed by Black Ensemble Theater Associate Director Rueben D. Echoles and made possible through a generous grant from Chicago Community Trust. During a limited run, Once Upon A People will enchant audiences of all ages at the new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. The showis running now through December 30, 2013 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Sundays in repertory with The Curtis Mayfield Story. TCheck out highlights of the show below!

Once Upon A People is an original African Fairytale that exemplifies the true power of love told through spoken word, beautiful music and exhilarating dance. It's a touching and warm adventure that is perfect for the holiday season. We will journey to the mystical land of Mirah where Prince Oba and Princess Erin take us on a fascinating mystical experience that teaches us to embrace the joy of living.

The cast features Alexis J. Rogers (Queen Imani), Donald Craig Manuel (King Babatunde), Eric Lewis (Prince Oba),Jazzelle Morriss (Princess Erin) and Claudia Cunningham (Zahara). Cast members playing various roles include: Camille Robinson, A'rese Emokpae, Trequon Tate, Mark J.P. Hood, LaRaia Gribble, La Dreauna Johnson, Kudzaishe Jeti,Kyle Smith and Aramie C. Payton.

The book and lyrics for Once Upon A People are written by Rueben D. Echoles, with vocal and musical arrangements byRueben D. Echoles, Alexis J. Rogers and Kelvin Roston, Jr.. As with all Black Ensemble productions, the production features outstanding musicians. The Musical Director is Kelvin Roston, Jr. and the band leader is Robert Reddrick. The production features students from Studio One, a Southside organization dedicated to providing professional dance classes for children for over 25 years.

Buy online at www.ticketmaster.com or call (773) 769-4451

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visitwww.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.



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