TDPS faculty and alumni to present "J's Jook Joint" with African Continuum Theatre Company

School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies (TDPS) faculty and alumni will take part this weekend in the African Continuum Theatre Company's benefit cabaret "J's Jook Joint," a modern-day twist on the historical "jook joint" experience. TDPS professor Scot Reese will direct the production, and TDPS alumna Thembi Duncan (BA Theatre ‘09) is the Artistic Director.

Starring D.C. native Beverly Cosham, the cabaret will also feature song, dance and spoken word performances by other D.C. performers, including seven TDPS alumni: Jamar Brown, Leaynne Freeman, Deborah Lubega, Bina Malhotra, Deidra LaWan Starnes, Baakari Wilder and Devron Young. The program ranges from jazz standards to gospel-inspired pop to soul-infused show tunes.

African Continuum Theatre Company is based in Washington, D.C. and aims to present productions, workshops and programs that illuminate the African American experience, multifaceted identity and connection to the African Diaspora. Founded on the core beliefs of heritage, knowledge and incubation, the company works to develop original works by African American playwrights to enhance the African American theatrical canon.

J’s Juke Joint: A Cabaret Benefit for African Continuum Theatre Company will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2013, 7:30 pm at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $25 each and are on sale now.