Amplify Reading Series
In support of First Stage’s ongoing commitment to the development of new work, with an intentional focus on lifting voices of diverse playwrights and artists, this season’s Amplify Series will be presented as readings of three new plays, held at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center.
A talkback will follow each reading, allowing audiences opportunities to share their voices with the playwright and artists – helping shape the development of the plays and potential future productions at First Stage.
The final reading for the 2023/2024 Season will be EMILY SONG AND THE QUEEN OF THE NIGHT. Stay tuned for information on next season's series!
These new play readings will be Pay What You Choose events. Doors will open approximately one hour prior to each reading. A minimum suggested ticket price is $10, but you may pay any amount you choose. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early, and may pre-order tickets by phone at (414) 267-2961. Learn more.
Emily Song and the Queen of the Night
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 7PM
Emily Song and the Queen of the Night
By Playwright and Composer Marcus Yi
Directed by Michelle LoRicco
Located at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
Emily Song had always known that she was meant to sing. However, her father banned music from their lives for as long as she can remember. But that doesn't stop Emily from secretly taking singing lessons online or joining the school glee club. On her 12th birthday, Emily's powers manifest and she discovers she is a music mage—a sorcerer who can cast magical spells through music. When the Queen of the Night kidnaps her father and best friend, Emily must figure out how to harness her newly discovered talent to save her loved ones—and New York City—from total destruction. Grab your cape, and be the first to see this world premiere, part of the TYA BIPOC Superhero Project.
Suggested for adults, teens and children ages 7-9 and 10-12.
This reading is part of the TYA BIPOC Superhero Project, a new initiative led by playwright and educator José Casas, designed to give playwrights of color more access to mainstream/regional Theatre for Young Audiences/USA (TYA/USA) theatres. In an effort the TYA/USA is calling the largest and most comprehensive partnership of theatres ever undertaken in the field, 20 playwrights of color will be commissioned by 24 theatres to develop their work in a one-week residency. All the commissioned works will feature stories of BIPOC superheroes, and the project will culminate in a year-long celebration with productions, co-productions, and a published anthology of all the plays. First Stage is honored to serve as a commissioning theater and overjoyed to be working with playwright/composer Marcus Yi.
Sponsored by 