Strand Theater Company and StillPointe Theater Initiative Will Present 'The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin,' Beginning 2/8

Strand Theater Company joins forces with StillPointe Theatre Initiative to co-produce The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin - an Obie Award-Winning, autobiographical, "smartly sweet" musical about a woman named Bubbly learning to embrace her color, as she pursues a dream of becoming the greatest dancing star in the world. Directed by Ryan Haase. The production will begin with Previews on February 8-14, will officially open on February 15, and run through February 23. Tickets to Previews are $15, Opening Night - $25, general admission $20, Seniors $15, Students $10.

The Story: What's a black girl from sunny Southern California to do? White people are blowing up black girls in Birmingham churches. Black people are shouting "Black is beautiful" while straightening their hair and coveting light skin. Viveca Stanton's answer: Slap on a bubbly smile and be as white as you can be! In a humorous and pointed coming-of-age story spanning the sixties through the nineties, Viveca blithely sails through the confusing worlds of racism, sexism and Broadway showbiz until she's forced to face the devastating effect self-denial has had on her life.

"The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin is a show about identity, and is perfect for Baltimore, especially during Black History Month.", says the Strand Artistic Director, Rain Pryor. "Here is a chance to put race in your face and on the table." Pryor has selected a long-time friend and Artistic Director of StillPointe, Ryan Hasse, to direct the production. "Ryan is a director and designer with integrity and sharp wit. He doesn't try to fit in, and we just all get to stay open." Ryan Haase is thrilled about the collaboration between StillPointe and the Strand, and shares Pryor's excitement for the production. "The cast of The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin tells a story of self discovery. This dynamic group of performers will be your tour guide on Viveca Stanton's quest to find her "brave new world", says Haase. "Come join us. Feel the energy. Find your groove, and start "keeping it real"".

Production cast features: NiZel J. Austin, Montel Butler, Jacquelyn Clemmons, Kristra Forney, Jay Hargrove, S. Ann Johnson, Zoe Kanter, Nina Kauffman, Jon Kevin Lazarus, Bobby Libby, Ines Nassara, and Ben Shaver.

Artistic team includes: Director/Set Design- Ryan Michael Haase, Assistant Director- Grace Anastasiadis, Musical Director- Stacey Antoine, Choreographer- Amanda J. Rife, Costume Designer- Anna Tringali, Lighting Designer- Charles Long, Hair/Makeup- Danielle Robinette, Scenic Artist/Muralist- Stefan Ways.