Emancipation

Emancipation is an interactive theatrical experience that draws from African and African-American storytelling traditions, as well as the ancestral stories and lived experience of creator and solo performer Djeli (William Forchion) — a masterful entertainer, revolutionary thinker and ceremonialist at heart. The show’s name is inspired by Marcus Garvey, the Black nationalist and renowned celebrant of African culture and history who famously said, “We are going to emancipate ourselves from mental slavery because whilst others might free the body none but ourself can free the mind.” Emancipation takes the audience on a spellbinding journey guided by Djeli. Using stories, poems, music, song and ritual incantation Djeli transports participants on a celebratory journey through four generations of one family from enslavement to today.  A Q & A session will follow each performance. 

The show’s complex themes are best suited for audience members ages 12 and older yet all ages are welcome.

This performance is made possible by a grant from the Brattleboro Town Arts Fund and presenting sponsor Farnum Insulators.