Summer school begins Monday, July 8
The Albany High Theatre Ensemble is once again using the stage to tackle issues of race, privilege and oppression in the Promising Playwrights Festival’s upcoming production of “Blaq Boi.”
The play’s four-performance run opens at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, with shows at 7 p.m. Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5, and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, May 6.
Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students and seniors.
“Blaq Boi” is the story of Treasure, an African-American male. It follows his journey from childhood to adulthood and delves into the myriad challenges black men face growing up and living in America.
“Though the play boldly addresses issues of institutional racism, white privilege and internalized oppression, it is also a celebration of black America through the reflections of a diverse Albany High School playwriting team,” said Theatre Ensemble Director Ward Dales.
The play was written by students Camille Dobbs, Jacklyn Flynn, Thia Fowler, Sion Hardy, Jaidyn Hires, Xji-Anne Hudson, Zanief Washington and Immanuel Williams, and teacher Gregory Theodore Marsh. Marsh also directs the play.
The play contains strong language and may not be appropriate for very young audiences.
Playwrights worked with local representatives of the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI), an international leadership group that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion. In addition, NCBI worked with the cast, crew and writers on how to honestly and comfortably discuss racism.
All actors in the show are Albany High students or alumni.
The mission of the City School District of Albany is to work in partnership with our diverse community to engage every learner in a robust educational program designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for success. The district serves more 9,600 students in 18 elementary, middle and high schools. In addition to neighborhood schools, the district includes several magnet schools and programs, as well as other innovative academic opportunities for students, including four themed academies at Albany High School.
