Children’s Legacy Theatre is thrilled to announce its standout production of the summer, an original play titled “Mystic Library,” debuting at its 10th annual Ten-Minute Play Festival in the heart of historic Anacostia.
Performances are scheduled for Aug. 1-2, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Through a valuable partnership with the Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program, over 80 talented youth from D.C. have collaborated to bring this riveting and enlightening theater production to life.
“Mystic Library” is a dramatic exploration of community and friendship, where the answers to life’s challenges lie within the mystical pages of the library itself. The story follows five teens who find solace in their neighborhood library, only to discover it’s in danger of closing due to city budget cuts. The Mystic Library becomes the battleground for a courageous fight to save it, showcasing themes of unity, resilience, and the power of community.
In this production, viewers will be introduced to six gifted youth playwrights: SuMayah Washington (17), Gibran Glover (16), Beyond Williams (15), Zarianna Marshall (17) and Rainn Kingsbury (15). These young writers have poured their creativity and hard work into crafting this original 10-minute play.
At Children’s Legacy Theatre, we are proud to employ top industry professionals who train and mentor our youth, equipping them with the skills needed to produce a remarkable play. From playwriting, stage management and props to set design, lighting, acting, dancing and marketing, our youth gain hands-on experience in every aspect of theater production, preparing them for the spotlight.
“Our work brings a triple benefit,” says Jackie Carter, executive director of Children’s Legacy Theatre. “We’re diversifying and filling the pipeline of employees in the theater industry, broadening horizons for youth who might otherwise pursue detrimental paths, and influencing behaviors that lead to the development of upstanding citizens for our communities.”
Children’s Legacy Theatre is more than an alternative to teen violence. We provide employment opportunities that prevent unnecessary crime and teen pregnancy, emphasizing the pillars of teamwork, responsibility, appearance, punctuality and leadership.
Through their CLT experience, community youth emerge as new leaders, ready to make positive impacts in their communities.
“I see great potential in all my fellow writers. Everyone is extremely talented,” says playwright Zarianna Marshall.
“Mystic Library” will be performed at Matthews Memorial Baptist Church, located in D.C. at 2616 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. Performances begin at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 1 and 2.
For more information, go to their website at www.childrenslegacytheatre8.org or call 202-710-7819.
Lyndia Grant is a speaker/writer living in the D.C. area. Her radio show, “Think on These Things,” airs Fridays at 6 p.m. on 1340 AM (WYCB), a Radio One station. To reach Grant, visit her website, www.lyndiagrant.com, email lyndiagrantshowdc@gmail.com or call 240-602-6295. Follow her on Twitter @LyndiaGrant and on Facebook.