Out of the Vineyard
Written by Psalmayene 24
Directed by Tony Thomas

Premiered September 2023

[ASL interpreted]

Joe’s Movement Emporium, in conjunction with the Freedom Stories Initiative, proudly announces the upcoming premiere of Out of the Vineyard. This innovative play is written by the esteemed playwright Psalmayene 24 and based on the historical book A Question of Freedom: The Families who Challenged Slavery from the Nation’s Founding to Civil War by William G. Thomas III.

Out of the Vineyard is a vivid, deeply researched narrative, constructed from interviews with descendants of enslaved families and individuals closely associated with the history of freedom suits in Prince George’s County. The play illuminates a buried chapter of American history, demonstrating the lingering effects of slavery in our society today. Weaving together stories of families and places, Psalmayene 24 constructs a play that asserts awareness of our divisive past as important steps to heal in the present.

Out of the Vineyard will be directed and choreographed by Tony Thomas and feature actors Scott Ward Abernethy, Frank Britton, Adrienne Nelson, and Jacqueline Youm. The design team includes set design by Shartoya Jn. Baptiste, costume design by Jeannette Christensen, lighting design by Marianne Meadows, video project design by Luis Garcia, sound design by Nick Hernandez, choreography assisted by Pauline Lamb, casting by Chelsea Radigan, and graphic design by Briana Falwell. The production will be stage managed by Kate Kilbane.