How do we tell Black girls that they are beautiful, smart, and worthy of pursing their dreams when they live in a world that is set up against them? On the heels of sold-out runs with MPAACT Theatre’s Summer Jams at Chicago’s Greenhouse Theater Center, The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, and the Atlanta Black Theater Festival, director, educator, and playwright, Sydney Chatman presents her inspirational and award-winning production, Black Girls (Can) Fly!
Inspired by Black Chicago-based pioneers, NASA’s Dr. Mae Jemison and Aviator Bessie Coleman, Chatman’s production follows 10 year-old, Bessie Mae whose fear of the world outside her front door prevents her from pursuing her dreams. Silenced by senseless killings and the disrespect towards Black women in her Chicago neighborhood, Bessie Mae feels helpless. But through the encouragement of her grandmother and the neighborhood “Fly Girls,” she overcomes by using her voice as a catalyst for change and social empowerments. See excerpts from this award-winning production and a special Wakandacon tribute to Black women, young ladies, and girls in STEAM.
Find out more about “Black Girls (Can) Fly!” on our social networks: Facebook: BlackGirlsCanFly, Instagram: BlackGirlsCanFly, and Email: blackgirlscanfly@gmail.com