In honor of Black History for February, A Journey Black written by local playwright Chyrel D. Simmons premieres, portraying the memories of two sisters & a cousin as they recall the history of their ancestors from slavery to freedom. A Journey Black premiered in 1985, a heart warming play presented with a blend of southern dialogue, Negro spiritual hymns and dance, returns co-starring Chyrel D. Simmons. The original story is recaptured with soul-stirring music written and composed by GAT Productions. .
CDS Productions Playhouse is located in Kline Plaza. Parking is free and ample. Showtimes are Friday, February 29th at 8:00 p.m. and the Saturday, March 1st with a matinee is at 1:00 p.m. and a last show at 8: p.m. Tickets for adults are $8.00 and for youth $5.00. Special groups rates are available to groups of seniors (60 +) and/or youth (14- ), mixed groups of seniors and youth are permissible. Groups of ten can purchase tickets at $3.00 per ticket, and the 11th ticket is free. Advance ticket purchases can be made at the playhouse, on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.
To honor February’s recognition of Black history CDS Productions will presents “A Journey Black”. This will be the 6th stage production the Theatre Company has opened to the community since April 2007. This performing arts guild created by Chyrel D. Simmons is to enhance the growth of the Harrisburg community through the performing arts. CDS Productions is committed to providing the Central Pennsylvania region with public theatre activities and performances with a goal to increase and encourage public awareness of and access to programs relating to the arts and humanities.
CDS Productions’ CREATE (Children Reaching Educational Achievements Through Expression) Academy aims to provide theatre training and mentorship to both local youths and adults. CREATE is interested in building showcasing local aspiring and seasoned artists. Curtain call for A Journey Black will feature on-going guild members Tabitha Gatling, Cody Burk, Darlene Harmon, and Shantel Evans. CDS Productions also welcomes newcomers to the guild, JaRise Swanson and Mary Dunston who will debut in the role of Emma, co-starring playwright Chyrel D. Simmons. Lyrist, Karen & composer Thaddeus Gatling of GAT Productions once again adds to the play with original written songs.
A Journey Black is a wonderfully traditional story of black history. Don’t miss this soul-stirring presentation by CDS and GAT Productions.
