The Oratorical: The Hero in Her
A Performance Celebrating Maya Angelou
Act 1
In Act 1, We meet Marguerite Annie Johnson, later to become Dr. Maya Angelou, as a young girl. She was beautiful, boisterous, and bright. We learn why she lost her voice, and what made her fight for it back. We celebrate her as a lover of books and honor her work through spoken word and song.
Amber Pierson (Surviving), Chauntiana (Still I Rise), Jamia Lee (Mothering Blackness), Vester Wiggins (Our Grandmothers), Nacaea Wess (Mrs. Flowers), Anita Gail Jones (A Conceit), Nacaea Wess and Porsche Shannon (Life Doesn’t Frighten Me at All), Antanasia Cook (Men), Symil Austin (Phenomenal Woman), and Neena Sanai-Simpo (Still I Rise).
Act 2
In Act 2, We dive deep in the life of Dr. Maya Angelou as an early adult. We learn about her journey into early motherhood and her undying love for her son. We celebrate her through a rich conversation with Griot women as they dive into her text and themes.
Neena Sanai Simpo (Still I Rise), Bettie Hodges, Camille Providence, Ida Times, Orianna Vaugh, Juanita Edwards, and Nancy Johnson (Still I Rise), and Chauntiana Thomas (California Prodigal).
Act 3
In Act 3. We reflect on the life of Dr. Maya Angelou. We honor her and her legacy that she left to women, black people, and people of the greater world.
Cynthia Williams (Black Bird), and Oshalla Dianna Marcus and Kokayi Postell (Son to Mother)
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
Maya Angelou
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Support us
Grow with Griot
Donate
Support the Griot Theater Company and Amplify Voices That Matter!
The Griot Theater Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to celebrating artists of color & empowering Marin City youth.
Your support makes a difference. Donate today & help us spotlight the stories that deserve to be told!
Volunteer
Join Our Team of Changemakers!
Do you have unique skills? Share your talents and enhance our productions. We have many ways for you to support our mission and make a lasting impact on the community.
Join us in shaping the magic of theater. Together, we can make a difference!
Griot Gear
Empower the next generation of artists!
Every purchase directly funds stipends for these talented creators, helping them grow and thrive. Discover one-of-a-kind items designed and created by our youth.
Your support makes a difference in their artistic journeys. Shop now and invest in their future!