On Stage with the Migration Series
In this dynamic cross-disciplinary initiative, The Phillips Collection has commissioned five plays from a range of local playwrights in response to Jacob Lawrence’s Migration Series. Addressing themes of migration and immigration, the museum will debut the 10-minute, one-act plays as staged readings. Directed by Derek Goldman and dramaturgy by Otis Ramsey-Zöe, playwrights included Norman Allen, Tearrance Arvelle Chisholm, Annalisa Dias, Jacqueline E. Lawton (who also serves as Producing Artistic Director), and Laura Shamas. Generous funding for this program has been provided by Elaine Reuben.
Playwrights' Interviews
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Interview with Norman Allen
Interview with Tearrance Arvelle Chisholm
Interview with Annalisa Dias
Interview with Jacqueline E. Lawton
Interview with Laura Shamas
Interview with Tearrance Arvelle Chisholm
Interview with Annalisa Dias
Interview with Jacqueline E. Lawton
Interview with Laura Shamas
On Stage with the Migration Series Film Shoot
The plays were presented twice as staged readings last fall, and on June 26th, 2017, the staged readings were recorded in the galleries alongside the artwork with the original cast and director. The five plays address issues such as immigration, migration, racial tensions in America, and familial relationships. Filming the readings in the galleries, among the 30 panels The Phillips Collection owns, made for an interesting and meaningful atmosphere for the recordings. With photos by director Derek Goldman and Kelley Daley, the cast, which included Desmond Bing, Nora Achrati, Natalie Graves Tucker, Jeff Allin, James Johnson, and Craig Wallace, worked to bring these plays to life for the camera.
The Film: On Stage with the Migration Series
In this dynamic cross-disciplinary initiative, The Phillips Collection commissioned five plays from a range of local playwrights in response to Jacob Lawrence’s Migration Series. This commission was in relation to the exhibition People on the Move: Beauty and Struggle in Jacob Lawrence’s Migration Series (October 8, 2016 – January 8, 2017). Addressing themes of migration and immigration, the museum debuted the 10-minute, on-act plays as staged readings on October 20, 2016 and again on November 3, 2016. Directed by Derek Goldman, Artistic Producer Jacqueline E. Lawton, and Dramaturg Otis Ramsey-Zoë. The cast includes Nora Achrati, Jeff Allin, Desmond Bing, JJ Johnson, Natalie Graves Tucker, and Craig Wallace. Playwrights include: Norman Allen, Tearrance Arvelle Chisholm, Annalisa Dias, Jacqueline E. Lawton, and Laura Shamas. Videographers Shaun Mir and Rob Migrin.
Past Presentations
The Kent County Arts Council (KCAC) produced a staged reading of the Migration Plays at the Garfield Performing Art Center in Chestertown, Maryland. Click here to learn more.
Media Coverage
“Migration” Series Depicts Struggle through Art
First lady of Maryland views 'Migration,' RiverArts and Garfield
Media Coverage
“Migration” Series Depicts Struggle through Art
First lady of Maryland views 'Migration,' RiverArts and Garfield
Up Next:
The Phillips presents a staged reading of five, 10-minute plays, commissioned and premiered in 2016 in response to Jacob Lawrence’s Migration Series. The plays were written by Norman Allen, Tearrance Chisholm, Annalisa Dias, Jacqueline E. Lawton, and Laura Shamas. The staged reading, addressing themes of migration and immigration, celebrates Step Afrika!’s 30th anniversary and its performance of “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence” at Arena Stage. Followed by a discussion with the cast.
Click here to learn more!
Click here to learn more!