What is Hands Up? A transformative set of monologues that will open your heart and mind to changing the racial ecology of Portland.
These highly personal, brilliantly written and acted monologues explore the experiences of six black men and one black woman who have been negatively impacted by interactions with law enforcement. The audience is immersed in the challenge of finding wellbeing as an African American in a culture of institutionalized racial profiling.
Commissioned in the wake of police shootings of Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO and many others, Hands Up is followed by a “talk back” with director Kevin Jones and Lesli Mones, co-founders of The August Wilson Red Door Project. Audience members have described these discussions as “transformative,” “unforgettable” and “necessary.” In one of the whitest cities in America, Hands Up offers audiences both an intimate and immediate immersion into the culture of institutionalized profiling and a safe, much needed catalyst to conversations around race.
Friendly House is partnering with The August Wilson Red Door Project to present Hands Up on Saturday, May 13 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm. The performances take place at Friendly House and are free and open to the public.
Why Friendly House Needs Your Support: As Portland becomes more diverse, Friendly House wants to bring our community together to increase understanding of racism and how it operates in our lives and especially how it affects our brothers and sisters of color. We hope that Hands Up at Friendly House will spark change in the community and in each individual who participates. YOU CAN HELP. Our fundraising goal is $7,500, which covers all costs for the two performances at Friendly House and allows us to offer childcare during one of the performances.
The August Wilson Red Door Project changes the racial ecology of Portland through the arts. For more information, fundraising or booking Hands Up in your area, please contact info@reddoorproject.org.
Friendly House creates a thriving community by connecting people of all ages and backgrounds through quality educational, recreational and other life-sustaining services.
The New Black Fest’s HANDS UP: 7 Playwrights, 7 Testaments is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.
Hands Up received its world premiere at Flashpoint Theatre Company at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia on June 13, 2015, directed by Joanna Settle.
Tickets are free and will be first come, first served starting April 15. Click HERE for tickets.
