Olney Theatre Center is making significant strides in the world of theater with its latest announcements. These three collaborative projects, developed through week-long workshops as part of the Vanguard Arts Fund (VAF) during the 24/25 season, promise to be a treat for theater enthusiasts.

Unlock the Potential of Theater with Olney Theatre Center's VAF

In Dahomey (December 9 – 15, 2024)

This project is a remarkable resurrection of the first musical to grace Broadway and be written by and starring African Americans. The 1903 hit, "In Dahomey," was a satirical take on the American Colonisation Society's Reconstruction-era efforts to send formerly enslaved people "back to Africa." By bringing this legacy to life once again, it honors the past while making it relevant in the present. It showcases the power and importance of African American theater and its ability to tell stories that resonate across generations.The creative minds behind this revival, Monty Cole and Breon Arzell, are set to take the stage at Olney Theatre's William H. Graham Actors’ Hall. This is a significant moment in theater history, as it brings back a piece that has been long forgotten and gives it a new lease on life.

Artificial (March 3 – 9, 2025)

Simon's life took a turn after a failed career in standup comedy. He found himself working as an AI engineer at his younger brother Jetsada's thriving chatbot company, a job that sucked the soul out of him. But the artistic bug bit him again, and he decided to use the company's AI technology to write jokes. This led him back to the open mic nights, much to Jetsada's dismay.The story of "Artificial" explores the complex relationship between siblings and the uneasy intersection of art and technology. It delves into the question of what it means to be human in the modern age and how technology is shaping our lives. The creative team of Prince Gomolvilas and Jeff Liu have crafted a story that is both timely and timeless, touching on universal themes that everyone can relate to.

Okuni (March 31 – April 5, 2025)

Kabuki's untold story reveals that it was founded by a woman named Okuni. Centuries may have separated us from 16th-century Japan, but Okuni's life raises questions that are eerily relevant in our present day. It makes us ponder the role of the artist in a totalitarian regime, what it means to be a woman in a man's world, and how to survive the vicissitudes of politics, war, and economic unrest.Okuni's story is a compelling exploration of these issues and more. It challenges our preconceived notions and forces us to think deeply about the world around us. The creative team of Naomi Iizuka, Paul Hodge, and Lisa Portes have brought this story to life in a way that is both thought-provoking and engaging.Olney Theatre Center's mission to produce, present, and tour extraordinary performances for a diversity of audiences is evident in these three projects. With its rich history and commitment to nurturing new talent, Olney Theatre Center is truly a national destination for the most impactful theater performance and education.