Uplifting Family Musical Comes to UCPAC LOFT this Holiday Season

Foster care children in need will receive a special gift this holiday season thanks to "Who Am I: A Christmas Lullaby". An uplifting musical for the entire family; about a unique group of foster home children, who discover the true meaning of Christmas. To debut on Saturday, December 17, 2016 at the LOFT at the Union County Performing Arts Center 1601 Irving Street, Rahway NJ 07065.

The cast comprises of aspiring young performing artists from New Jersey. For some of them, this marks their first professional performance as actors. Set to a Christmas theme, the musical centers around a group of vivacious foster care kids that express their idea of Christmas through dance, song, and poetry. The production marks the three-year anniversary of Just Be You Performing Arts. A Rahway New Jersey based mentoring and enrichment organization.

"I am thrilled to have such a diverse cast of amazing talent. It is the goal of Just Be You Performing Arts to provide quality programs for kids in New Jersey. The cast of 'Who Am I: A Christmas Lullaby' represent the multicultural landscape of our country. And the story of hope crosses all backgrounds. This is a musical for one and all," said Mahogany Reynolds-Clarke, writer/director/producer.

As a special treat for the children; world-traveled opera singer, Darren Stokes, will deliver a motivational speech followed by a vocal performance. Stokes has performed in operas all over the world. Most recently, Stokes performed the role of "Crown" in the "Porgy and Bess" Germany tour. As well as, the role of "Figaro" in "The Marriage of Figaro" with the Armarillo Opera in Texas. Stokes has performed in the Chicago Opera Theater, the New York City Opera, Carnegie Hall, the Washington National Opera, and the San Francisco Opera; and many more.

"I'm participating in this musical because it brings me happiness, as an artist, to first, be witness to a production of young musical artists. And, to instill in them the hope that there is a profitable future in the performing arts. I feel that music is important for children because music has been proven to improve cognitive function; as well as, concentration. There is no wonder why countries and communities that uphold music in their culture, excel in academics," said Stokes.

In keeping with Reynolds-Clarke's reputation as a philanthropist, a portion of the proceeds from the show, will be donated to New Jersey foster care families. By way of a collaboration with Minister Zakkiyah Green, founder/executive director of Beauty In Spirit, Inc.; a non-profit organization in New Jersey that supports and empowers women and girls, the donation will go directly to foster care homes in Union County.
The Rahway International Film Festival is a key sponsor of the musical. Reynolds-Clarke recently served as the festival's Question and Answer Moderator, during their annual film festival, for the second time in a row. The festival also has a junior division for aspiring young filmmakers. Just Be You Performing Arts sponsored the first annual RIFF, Jr. this past spring.

"RIFF believes in the power of art; visual arts, performing arts, experimental, and the like. It is so important to show our children that there are people who value their hard work and their talents. Not only does a production like this encourage the next generation of performers, but it enlightens its audience. Who doesn't appreciate a good holiday show," said Gina Marie Rodriquez, founder/executive director of the Rahway International Film Festival.

Tickets for "Who Am I: A Christmas Lullaby" are on sale now at www.ucpac.org/events. Tickets are $25 and comes with a free holiday goody bag, compliments of key sponsor JAFRA Cosmetics.

Seniors and students receive a special discount when purchasing tickets in person or by phone. More information on the show can be found at www.facebook.com/justbeyouperformingarts. Seating is limited. Tickets can also be purchased by visiting the UCPAC box office or calling 732-499-8226.

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