ORLANDO – Florida Theatrical Association presents an all-new, unique theatrical experience The Freedom Project: Influential African-American Floridians on July 29 at The Abbey in downtown Orlando. The Freedom Project presents a creative twist on famous pieces by historic African-American Floridian artists including Zora Neale Hurston, James Weldon Johnson, John Rosamund Johnson, and Augusta Savage.
The classic works will be presented by professional performers from the Orlando theater community, with each performer bringing their modern take on the folklore, poems, songs, or essays – bridging the gap between Florida’s past and present, and bringing to center stage the issues of freedom and oppression that are still prevalent to this day.
“I have a passion for history – especially Black and African American History – and I have called Florida my home for most of my life,” said Brandon Martin, Artistic Director of The Freedom Project. “I hope that this presentation sheds a light on historical figures that all Floridians can be proud of. Audiences can expect amazing music, dance, theater, visual art, and Spoken Word that will highlight some amazing individuals whose stories we should know.”
“A project like this ushers us into much-needed celebration and remembrance,” said Cultural Coordinator Felichia Chivaughn. “While it’s an opportunity to uncover the contributions of Black artists who have lived and worked in our backyard, it’s also a chance to recognize and treasure the ones we have now. I’m so enamored by this talented troupe of local artists – brilliantly curating and crafting these stories. They are the true stars.”
The Freedom Project features performances by Nakia Abram, Raphael Campos, Isaiah Entzminger, Whitney Fain, Jordan Goddard, Adourin Jamelle Owens, Christopher Payen, Tonya Phillips Staples, and Arius West. Brandon Martin serves as Artistic Director, with Felichia Chivaughn as Cultural Coordinator.
The Freedom Project: Influential African-American Floridians is presented free of charge. Tickets must be reserved in advance at www.EventBrite.com. For more information, visit www.FloridaTheatrical.org.
