Sankofa day 1: A James Baldwin Tribute Playwright Legacy Award (Laura Thomas) Love is Life by Rudy Valentino
8/20 Tuesday, Day One-Sankofa Opening A James Baldwin Tribute- David Shakes Playwright Legacy Award (Laura Thomas) Love is Life by Rudy Valentino
Time & Location
Aug 20, 2024, 7:30 PM – 9:40 PM
Rochester, 142 Atlantic Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, USA
About The Event
The Sankofa Theatre Festival is an annual one week African American theatrical festival of one-acts.
Tues, 8/20 Tuesday, 7:30 PM Day One-Sankofa Opening
A James Baldwin Tribute
Playwright Legacy Award (Laura Thomas)
Love is Life by Rudy Valentino
Advance $17,
At the door $25.
tickets are available on the Sankofa main page!
A Centennial Tribute to James Baldwin: 15 Years of Sankofa
Join us for a landmark celebration as we launch the 15th annual Sankofa Theatre Festival with a special tribute to the legendary James Baldwin, in honor of what would have been his 100th birthday. Sankofa, meaning "to remember the past to build a brighter future, go back and get it" is the guiding spirit of this year's festival as we reflect on Baldwin's enduring influence.
In this milestone year, we bring Baldwin's powerful words and ideas to life through stirring readings, compelling stories, and dynamic enactments by the esteemed David Shakes, a pioneering force in Rochester's Black Theater scene. This celebration is not just about honoring Baldwin's legacy but also about highlighting our community's contributions to the arts.
We are proud to present the first-ever Sankofa Playwright Legacy Award to Laura A. Thomas, recognizing her extraordinary body of work that continues to inspire and elevate the world of theater.
Join us for this momentous occasion as we celebrate 15 years of Sankofa and honor one of the most transformative voices in literature and theater.
The first one-act of the festival is "Levels of Love".
"Levels of Love" is a stage play that follows the emotional journey of a couple, Philly and Chelsa, as they navigate the complexities of love. From their initial meeting at a show, where they share an instant connection, to the highs of romantic dinners and the lows of misunderstandings and mistrust, the play captures the evolution of their relationship. Throughout the play, pivotal moments are underscored by songs that reflect the emotions of each scene.
As the relationship faces challenges, Philly and Chelsa must confront their feelings and decide whether their love can survive. The play culminates in a touching reenactment of their first meeting, reminding them of the love they once shared.