EVENT: A Promise to the Sun (June 1-3)

YouthWorks Spring 2012 Production Presents:

A Promise to the Sun by Tololwa Mollel

Why do bats only come out at night?

MONTRÉAL, May 15, 2012 – Black Theatre Workshop’s unique training performance program YouthWorks presents its annual spring production A Promise to the Sun by Tololwa Mollel directed by Deborah Forde, featuring 2011-2012 YouthWorks students and mentees and playing at the popular L’Espace 4001 for a limited run June 1^st to 3^rd 2012. 

“After a year spent investing in professional self-development, our youth are pleased to have an opportunity to give back to their community by sharing of themselves through what they love – performance. Within the frame of a story written for children, together they have developed delights that will engage all.” Deborah Forde, YouthWorks Director

Based on a book by the same name, A Promise to the Sun by Tololwa Mollel is a Maasai folktale that tells the story of a tiny bat that brings rain to the parched Tanzanian Savannah, and the dishonor that befalls her as a result.

All YouthWorks actors go through a multi-level process, ending with this professional development opportunity.  They include some of the city’s most dynamic young performers, and most have already begun a professional career in the arts.  This ensemble features Shyheim Cole, Ranee Henegan-Comeau, Tiernan Cornford, and Brandon Harris 

Forde is assisted by YouthWorks instructors: Bryan James associate director and actor, Lateef Martin who lends his vocal, choreography and acting expertise to the mix, Jason Selman as the associate director and actor, and special guest artist Vuyo Dumisizwe Bhembe, who performs live music for the production. YouthWorks artists in residence include Chana Ellman as the stage manager, Alex Smith as the lighting designer and Logan Williams as the set and costume designer, and David Sklar, actor.  

In the summer of 2000, Black Theatre Workshop launched a three-week intensive Theatre training program for Black youth, called the ‘Young Performers’ Initiative. Now renamed YouthWorks, the program is an ongoing, year-round training project for youth of diverse backgrounds, with an increased focus on exploration of African diasporic forms in a contemporary North American context. In 2011, YouthWorks launched a mentorship program for emerging artists for support in launching careers in the arts and expanding their creative skill set.  For more information on YouthWorks and our upcoming programs please go to www.blacktheatreworkshop.ca or call YouthWorks at 514-932-1104 ext 224.

###

For Interview Requests: Ashley Belmer, Marketing and Development marketing@blacktheatreworkshop.ca 514-932-1104 ext 223

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

Dates: Friday to Sunday, June 1 to 3 (Only 4 shows)

Time: Friday and Saturday Evening at 7:30pm

Saturday and Sunday Matinee at 2:00pm

Tickets: General Admission: $10.00

                                        Kids under 12 are ½ price!

Group Rates Available

Venue: L’Espace 4001

4001 Berri, corner Duluth (Metro Sherbrooke) 

Box Office: (514) 932-1104 ext. 226, boxoffice@blacktheatreworkshop.ca

Website: www.blacktheatreworkshop.ca