Wrestling with Angels: A FAMU Youth Theatre Production

“Wrestling with angels” – FAMU Youth Theater to Premiere Inspiring Hip-Hop Musical

Tallahassee, FL – Get ready for a powerful and uplifting theatrical experiance! The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Essential Theatre and Irene C. Edmonds youth Theatre will premiere thier original hip-hop musical, Wrestling with Angels, on July 11-12, 2025, at the Charles Winter Wood Theatre on the FAMU campus.

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this isn’t your typical children’s theatre. Wrestling with Angels tells the story of Cassius, an angel on a final mission, and Cassandra, a resilient young orphan. Their unlikely connection blossoms into a journey of compassion, trust, and ultimately, healing. Written and directed by award-winning playwright James Webb and featuring musical direction by Mich’ele Barrington, the production is infused with original hip-hop music that bridges generations and delivers a fresh, contemporary sound.

A Message of Strength and Self-Acceptance

“Wrestling with Angels encourages kids to color outside the lines, to embrace what makes them diffrent, and to channel their energy in ways that uplift themselves and others,” explains Webb. He emphasizes the

how does the FAMU Youth Theater program’s focus on diverse storytelling contribute to its students’ artistic advancement?

The Playwright and the powerful Narrative

“Wrestling with Angels,” penned by playwright Chay Yew, is a deeply moving and often challenging work exploring themes of family, faith, and the AIDS epidemic. This particular production, brought to life by the talented students of Florida A&M University (FAMU)’s Youth Theatre program, offers a poignant and vital interpretation of Yew’s script. The play centers around a Korean-American family grappling with the illness of their son, David, and the complex emotions surrounding his sexuality and diagnosis. It’s a story about reconciliation, acceptance, and the enduring power of love in the face of immense hardship.FAMU’s commitment to staging such impactful theatre productions demonstrates their dedication to both artistic excellence and social commentary.

FAMU Youth Theatre: A Hub for Emerging Talent

The FAMU Youth Theatre program is renowned for its commitment to nurturing young performers and providing them with opportunities to tackle complex and meaningful roles. This production of “Wrestling with angels” is no exception. The program consistently showcases the diverse talents of students,offering training in acting,stagecraft,and theatrical design.

Here’s what makes the FAMU Youth Theatre program stand out:

Focus on Diverse Storytelling: They actively seek out plays that represent a wide range of experiences and perspectives.

Professional-Level Training: Students receive instruction from experienced theatre professionals.

Community Engagement: Productions are often performed for local schools and community organizations,fostering a love of live theatre and sparking important conversations.

Performance Opportunities: Regular performances allow students to hone their skills and gain valuable stage experience.

Key Themes Explored in “Wrestling with Angels”

The play doesn’t shy away from tough subjects. It delves into the emotional turmoil experienced by both David and his family as they navigate his illness and confront their own prejudices and beliefs.

Here are some of the central themes:

The AIDS Crisis: The play offers a powerful and personal portrayal of the impact of the AIDS epidemic on individuals and families.It serves as a reminder of the devastating loss and the ongoing need for awareness and compassion.

Family Dynamics: The strained relationships between David and his parents,particularly his mother,are central to the narrative. The play explores the challenges of dialog, forgiveness, and unconditional love.

Cultural Identity: David’s struggle to reconcile his Korean-American heritage with his sexuality adds another layer of complexity to the story.

Faith and Spirituality: The “wrestling with angels” metaphor speaks to the characters’ internal struggles with faith and their search for meaning in the face of suffering. Dramatic arts often explore these profound questions.

Production Details & Artistic Choices

The FAMU Youth Theatre’s production of “Wrestling with Angels” reportedly features a minimalist set design, allowing the focus to remain on the actors and the emotional weight of the story. Lighting and sound are used effectively to create a sense of intimacy and to underscore the play’s dramatic moments. Costume design reflects the characters’ backgrounds and personalities, adding another layer of depth to the production. The director,[Director’sName-[Director’sName-data not available in provided context, would need to be researched], has emphasized the importance of authenticity and emotional honesty in the actors’ performances.

The Impact of Theatre on Youth Development

Participating in youth theatre programs like the one at FAMU offers numerous benefits for young people:

Improved Communication Skills: Acting requires clear articulation and effective communication.

Enhanced Creativity and Imagination: Theatre encourages students to think outside the box and explore their creative potential.

Increased Self-Confidence: Performing in front of an audience can be empowering and build self-esteem.

Development of Empathy: Stepping into the shoes of different characters helps students develop empathy and understanding for others.

Teamwork and Collaboration: Theatre is a collaborative art form that requires teamwork and cooperation.

Supporting FAMU Youth Theatre & Local Arts

Supporting programs like the FAMU Youth Theatre is crucial for fostering the next generation of artists and enriching the cultural landscape of the community. Here are a few ways to get involved:

Attend Performances: Show your support by attending their productions.

Donate to the Program: Financial contributions help fund scholarships, productions, and othre program initiatives.

Volunteer Your Time: Offer your skills and expertise to assist with various aspects of the program.

* Spread the Word: Share information about the program with your friends and family. Promote local theatre and the arts!