American Drum Circle by Vanessa Shealy

Eighteen-year-old Mandy is torn between childhood dreams and adult responsibilities. Then she meets Olujimi, a rising hip hop artist from Africa, who escaped his parents to pursue dreams of stardom in America. From family fraud and family failure, Mandy and Olujimi look for a future in each other. Will that be enough to escape the rhythm of the past?
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American Drum Circle

Recommended by

  • Mark Loewenstern:
    9 Feb. 2020
    “ A remarkable tale about what we think the world owes us, the suffering that leads to, and the way out of that trap. Shealy crafts a seamless story full of authentic characters, compelling scenes, genuine tragedy and earned redemption. ”

RON JOHNSON Caucasian man, around 50, from a small Oklahoma town, devout.
MANDY JOHNSON Ron’s daughter, 18, in mourning, a dreamer in disguise.
OLUJIMI OFARA Nigerian, early 20s, an aspiring hip hop star.
PASTOR & CHARLIE Two roles played by an African-American man, 40s.
NIECY & IFE Two roles played by an African-American woman, 40s.

Development History

  • Reading
    ,
    The Actors Studio, NYC
    ,
    2010
  • Reading
    ,
    ESPADrills at Primary Stages
    ,
    2010

Production History

  • Community Theater
    ,
    UP Theater
    ,
    2016