The New Griots Festival Tickets

The New Griots Festival is a celebration of contemporary African American playwrights and theater artists that takes place every year in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The festival was started in 2012 by Jamil Jude and Mankwe Ndosi, two prominent figures in the Twin Cities arts community. Their goal was to create a space where black voices could be heard and celebrated in an industry where they often go unheard.

The festival's name, "Griots," refers to West African storytellers who pass down history, traditions and cultural values through music and spoken word. Similarly, the New Griots festival showcases the stories and experiences of African American playwrights and performing artists, highlighting their unique perspectives and talents.

The festival features a range of theatrical productions, including full-length plays, one-act plays, and staged readings. It also includes workshops and events that provide opportunities for discussion and collaboration between artists and audience members. Through this programming, the New Griots festival establishes a community of black theater professionals that can help to sustain and expand the presence of black theater in the Midwest.

One of the key features of the New Griots festival is its commitment to diversity and inclusion. It celebrates not only black artists but also non-black artists who are committed to portraying black experiences accurately and respectfully. This inclusivity extends beyond race and ethnicity as well, as the festival has included plays about LGBT communities and disabled individuals.

Another important aspect of the New Griots festival is its focus on telling stories that illuminate social issues. Many of the plays have tackled topics like police brutality, mass incarceration, and racism, providing a platform for dialogue and activism within the artistic community. By engaging with these issues, the festival encourages both artists and audiences to reflect on the world around them and work towards creating positive change.

Overall, the New Griots festival plays an essential role in encouraging the growth and vitality of black theater in the Twin Cities. Its celebration of contemporary African American playwrights and theater artists enables their voices to be heard in a predominantly white industry, celebrating the diverse perspectives and experiences of black communities. The festival's commitment to inclusivity and social justice sets the stage for meaningful conversations that can spark change on both an individual and communal level.