(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- Vanguard Theater proudly announces the electrifying arrival of Def Poetry Jam luminary Dahlak Brathwaite's transformative hip-hop theater experience, "Spiritrials." This dynamic production seamlessly intertwines beats, rhymes, and spoken word, offering a unique meditation on the convergence of musical expression and historical struggle. For an exclusive weekend engagement from March 22-25, 2024, audiences are invited to witness this evocative performance that pushes the boundaries of storytelling.

"We discovered Dahlak's remarkable talent during our 'Illuminating New Voices' festival, made possible by a generous grant from the Michael Jordan and Jordan Foundation in 2023," shares Janeece Freeman Clark, Founding/Producing Artistic Director of Vanguard Theater. "Bringing 'Spiritrials' to our 2024 season reflects our commitment to cultivating new works by underrepresented voices and shedding light on crucial community issues. This production aligns seamlessly with our mission to challenge social and cultural narratives through theater dedicated to DREAM: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism & Mentorship."

Dahlak Brathwaite's virtuoso creation unfolds with the accompaniment of live beats and samples spun by turntable maestro DJ Dion Decibels. Lush projections by Joan Osato enrich the exploration of addiction, religion, and the law in a timely and personal examination of the criminal justice system. Inspired by one of Brathwaite's recent hip-hop albums, "Spiritrials" blurs the lines between hip-hop and dramatic performance, layering characters, poetic verse, and dialogue over the musical content.

"Spiritrials" was written and is performed by Dahlak Brathwaite; scored by Dahlak Brathwaite and Dion Decibels; live score performed by Dion Decibels. The production is directed by Marc Bamuthi Joseph and Sean San Jose; dramaturgy by Marc Bamuthi Joseph; and produced by Youth Speaks/lctus/Joan Osato.

Witness the convergence of art and activism in Dahlak Brathwaite's "Spiritrials" — an unmissable exploration of the intersection of rhythm, rhyme, and justice.

Performance Schedule:

• Friday, March 22, and Monday, March 25: 1:00pm matinees (Students/Seniors $20, General Admission $25)


• Saturday, March 23: 2:00pm matinee followed by an interview with Dahlak Brathwaite by Broadway actor Dwayne Clark for his podcast, "Conversations with Dwayne."


• Saturday, March 23: 8:00pm show, followed by an official "Spiritrials" inspired dance party.


• Sunday, March 24: 3:00pm matinee, followed by an open mic poetry slam.

Ticket Information: All tickets for Saturday and Sunday shows are $25, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. Tickets are available for purchase online. All performances take place at Vanguard Theater (180 Bloomfield Avenue, Second Floor) in Montclair, New Jersey (walking up stairs required).

Founded in 2015, Vanguard Theater Company is a unique 501(c)(3) committed to changing social and cultural narratives through theater dedicated to DREAM: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism & Mentorship.