The third annual monologue showcase, "50in50: Letters to Our Daughters," a collaboration between The Billie Holiday Theatre and the Frank Silvera Writers' Workshop, is returning for two shows on Saturday, March 9, to the Kumble Theater.
Fifty original monologues were selected from hundreds of submission from women of the African Diaspora from across the globe to be read by a stellar cast of renowned actors.
This year's performers include Orange is the New Black's Marsha Stephanie Blake, Pauletta Pearson Washington of She's Gotta Have It, Hamilton's Jasmine Cephas Jones, LaChanze who starred in The Color Purple and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical on Broadway, and Terria Joseph who most recently could be seen in the Fox TV Show Empire, among others. Live music will be performed by vocalist Maritri Garrett.
Curated by acclaimed actor, playwright and MacArthur "Genius" Dominique Moriseau, the annual 50in50 series offers a platform for 50 Black women and girls from all walks of life to share their stories in form of a letter.
"50in50 is a global platform for Black women that speaks to the intersectionality of class, age, ability, gender identity, nationality and sexual orientation in the 21st century," said Dr. Indira Etwaroo, executive director of The Billie Holiday Theatre. "I am proud that we are able to provide a relevant space for artistic expression where 50 fiercely brilliant women writers can have their story come to life through live theater."
This year's letters focus on the world the writers would like to leave behind for their daughters. The letters address vital issues affecting women and girls today, and include a community conversation exploring global movements like #MeToo and #MuteRKelly, and how these issues are dealt with and discussed within the Black community.
"These are all stories that need to be told and heard," said Dr. Etwaroo. "It is not lost on us that 50in50 has become increasingly meaningful over the last two years of its existence, as women continue to grapple with historical injustices and social norms that would oppress, rather than liberate."
50in50: Letters to Our Daughters
When: Saturday, March 9 | 3:00pm & 7:00pm
Where: The Kumble Theater at LIU Brooklyn, 1 University Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11201
How much: $25. For tickets, go here.
