Event

Look Above Yourself: A Tribute to Black American Heritage

Arts-A-F!RE Youth Theater Troupe will present an original play written by MBAA technical director Carl Slappy. The show is dedicated to Dr. William Herbert Brewster who authored many of the songs in the play, such as "Move on Up A Little Higher,". Dr. Brewster who died in 1987, was pastor of East Trigg Baptist Church. A composer, poet and dramatist, he wrote and published more than 200 songs. This gospel musical drama gives the audience a front row seat in the life of little Queenie (Zareia Ector) as she grows up overcoming peer pressure to join a gang. Her best friend "Peace" (Kaylie Franklin) encourages her to avoid the trappings of a fast-paced urban life. Queenie's courage is strengthened and reaches out to Papa Jed, her praying grandfather (Reverend Carl S. Slappy). The grandfather shows Queenie how they are standing on the shoulders of those who came before them.

Rev. Slappy says: "The audience will be inspired to remember how we got over from auction block, to glory. They shall be reminded that when God's grace is in, race it is out." This presentation features members of the Memphis Black Arts Alliance Arts-A-F!RE Youth Theater Troupe and various community actresses and actors.