Photo Flash: The All For One Theater Festival Presents UnFRAMED

Winner of the 2011 Award for Excellence in Theatre from the DC Black Theatre Festival, ?In unFRAMED writer and performer Iyaba Ibo Mandingo tells the story of his journey from Antigua to America. It wasn't without tribulations; navigating treacherous times without a father, Mandingo turned to art. unFRAMED puts the art front and center: Mandingo uses painting, poetry, prose and song to tell a story that echoes the lives of many.? ? Times Herald Record.

At the age of eleven, Iyaba is plucked from the tropical comfort of his childhood and taken to a new life in a strange country. unFRAMED is his poetic tale of life as an immigrant - from boyhood in Antigua to manhood in America. Using canvas, paint, poetry, prose and song, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo tells a story of his transformation - from ?Mommy Me No Wanna Go Merrica? - a prophetic piece that hints at the many trials he will face in a new land - to his powerful political poetry which leads to his arrest and attempted deportation in post 9/11 America, Iyaba shares his rage, his determination, and his hope while he paints his self-portrait and successfully struggles to redefine his humanity, rediscover his smile, and truly accept himself for the first time. Audiences are invited into the studio of the artist where painting and poetry create unframed art.

"Iyaba IS a true work of art -- a powerful poet, painter and performer (among many other things); that raw/rare breed whose naked truth shatters long-held myths about life in America. Real deal." -- Forrest McClendon, 2011 Tony Award Nominee, The Scottsboro Boys

?One of the most powerful, sometimes funny, often angry but ultimately life-affirming shows I've ever seen! GO EXPERIENCE IT!!!? ? Frank Lowell, WTBQ

?The play's ability to transcend race and class and give refreshing life to universal themes has made unFRAMED resonate so well across demographic boundaries.? -- Peter Spengeman Chronogram

?Everyone needs to know what a fantastic - simply great show this is. Humor, depth, artistry - it has it all and it is truly an engaging and wonderful evening of theater ... Heart, heart, heart. GO to this show - it's one of the best evenings of theater you will experience and I can not recommend it highly enough!? -- M. Peters, Esq, Audience Member

unFRAMED plays the following schedule:

Thursday, November 17 at 9:00pm
Sunday, November 20 at 1:00pm

Running Time: 85 minutes, no intermission

Tickets are $20
Tickets are available online at www.AFOfest.org or http://bit.ly/unFRAMEDtixatAFO