Harlem Stage To Host Free Showings Of 'Antigone In Ferguson'

HARLEM, NY — Harlem Stage will open its 2018-2019 programming schedule with a five-week run of free performances of the Theater of War Productions play "Antigone in Ferguson," the performing arts venue announced this week.

The free showings will begin September 13, and Harlem Stage plans to engage audiences from across the city through outreach campaigns and by providing inter-borough transportation to ensure that each showing has a diverse audience.

"This production reflects our goal of making the arts accessible to everyone and to position the arts as a fertile breeding ground for discussion on current topics" Monique Martin, director of programming of Harlem Stage, said in a statement.

The production combines dramatic readings of the Greek tragedy "Antigone" — performed by actors such as Samira Wiley, Paul Giammatti. Tamara Tunie, David Strathairn and Adepero Oduye — and choral music performed by activists, police officers, and concerned citizens from Ferguson, Missouri and New York City. The play was created following the fatal 2014 shooting of Michael Brown by police officer Darren Wilson.

Theater of War Productions has performed "Antigone in Ferguson" in more than 60 locations across the five boroughs and in more than 700 venues worldwide. The run at Harlem Stage will be the first time the production performs in the same venue for a prolonged period of time.

"Antigone in Ferguson" translated and directed by Bryan Doerries and its musical components were composed by Phil Woodmore.

“We are grateful to Harlem Stage for creating a home for our work in Harlem,” Doerries, artistic director of Theater of War Productions, said in a statement. “With our projects, we strive to make brave spaces for difficult conversations that have the power to heal rifts and strengthen community bonds. WithAntigone in Ferguson, we hope to build upon the great work that Harlem Stage has been doing for decades to engage diverse audiences with dynamic performances, igniting dialogue and inspiring positive change.”

Photo courtesy Harlem Stage