News Summary
Florida A&M University is set to debut ‘Wrestling with Angels,’ a hip-hop musical by FAMU alum James Webb. The production, featuring a cast of 30 children, explores themes of friendship and resilience as inspired by the biblical story of Jacob. With intense preparation and original music, the show promises to be a meaningful experience for both performers and the audience. Performances are scheduled for July 11 and 12, with tickets available online.
Tallahassee, FL – Florida A&M University (FAMU) will be showcasing a vibrant stage production titled “Wrestling with Angels,” which is set to debut on Friday, July 11, at the Charles Winter Wood Theatre. This hip-hop musical, crafted by FAMU alum James Webb, draws inspiration from the biblical narrative of Jacob’s encounter with a divine figure, intertwining themes of friendship and resilience.
The storyline revolves around two central characters: Cassius, an ambitious angel striving to earn her wings, and Cassandra, a persistent orphan who discovers the significance of trust and camaraderie. The production, created specifically for the ‘ICE’ campers, features original hip-hop music curated by Mich’ele Barrington. With a diverse cast comprising 30 talented children aged 7 to 16, the musical promises to deliver an engaging experience for audiences of all ages.
Preparation for this ambitious performance encompassed five weeks of intense rehearsal that involved auditions, callbacks, and choreography integration. The entire cast has been diligently working to bring their characters and the production’s message to life. The co-managing director, who is also a FAMU alum, highlighted the play’s central theme of individual journeys and overcoming obstacles, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
Valencia Matthews, the founder of the youth theatre program, noted that productions like “Wrestling with Angels” are invaluable in nurturing essential life skills among young performers, such as discipline and responsibility. The cast members are not only honing their artistic skills but are also developing personal growth through their involvement in the theatrical experience.
Among the cast, 11-year-old Bailey McMillan portrays Cassius, reflecting on the unique challenge of blending her identity with that of her character. Similarly, 13-year-old Ziyah Petithomme plays Cassandra, drawing connections between her own emotional journey and that of her character. This personal engagement enhances their performances and entertains the audience.
The musical aims to uplift and engage young artists while providing a nurturing environment for creativity. “Wrestling with Angels” presents an opportunity for children to express themselves through performance and build confidence in their abilities. The production emphasizes the importance of community engagement within the arts, fostering connections among participants, families, and audiences.
Audiences can attend the performances scheduled for July 11, with showtimes at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., followed by a 2 p.m. matinee on July 12. Ticket prices are set at $8 for adults and $5 for children during the matinee, while evening performances will cost $15 for adults, with discounted rates available for seniors and students. Tickets are accessible through the online platform available via cssah.famu.edu.
With “Wrestling with Angels,” FAMU Youth Theatre Ensemble aims to deliver a powerful and heartfelt story that resonates with audiences, emphasizing the resilience of youth and the transformative power of friendship.
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- Tallahassee.com: FAMU Theaters Wrestling with Angels Readies for Weekend Opening
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- HBCU Gameday: Exiting FAMU President Pens Heartfelt Letter
- WTXL: Thousands of FAMU Alumni Celebrate Homecoming
- Wikipedia: Theatrical Production
- Google Search: FAMU Theater
- Google Scholar: FAMU Performance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theater
- Google News: FAMU News
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TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
