Theatrical Collaborations
Our Project is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the amazing stories being created by TYA playwrights across the United States that explore the notion of Superheroes while, at the same time, explore the issues that are our youth communities of color are encountering and struggling with.
This theatrical collaboration is about touting the need for diversity, inclusiveness, representation, and equity in every space where Theatre For Young Audiences exists. It is about moving beyond rhetoric into sincere and tangible action.
This is the largest partnership in the history of the field and it focuses on “this” moment- a moment in time where multiple TYA and non-TYA organizations have decided to be part of a change. They are “planting seeds” that will hopefully grow and will work with theatre makers to remind us of the importance of Superheroes.
“With Great power, comes great responsibility”
– Uncle Ben
Our Superheroes
This Project is a reminder of the importance that Superheroes come in all shapes and sizes. It redefines the meaning of Superheroes while celebrating communities that have been historically marginalized and been made to feel invisible.
We intend to remind everyone in this field that we have a
responsibility to ensure that our youth of color see themselves in a loving and caring way. It is to show our youth of color that they belong and are seen.
That They See Themselves:
* In their curriculum
* In the classroom
* Teaching in front of the class
* On the pages of a script
* On the stage
And That They See The Superhero Within Themselves.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the acronyms in the TYA BIPOC Superhero Project mean?
TYA = Theatre for Young Audiences
Theater for Young Audiences refers to theatrical productions specifically designed and performed for children and young people, often with a focus on educational and entertainment value. It encompasses a range of forms, from musicals and dramas to puppet shows and even sensory-friendly performances. TYA also includes outreach programs and workshops that engage with young audiences, fostering creativity, imagination, and critical thinking.
BIPOC = Black, Indigenous, People of Color
It’s a term used in the United States to describe a group of people who are not White, often used to emphasize the unique experiences of Black and Indigenous communities within a larger group of non-White people.
Why Superheroes?
Imaginative Play: Superhero narratives encourage children to engage in imaginative play, both during and after the show, allowing them to process and extend the experience.
Exploring Themes of Bravery and Resilience: Superheroes embody admirable qualities like bravery, compassion, and resilience, which can help children develop a sense of self-confidence, self-control, and empathy.
Relatable Role Models: Children can identify with the struggles and triumphs of superheroes, seeing themselves as potential heroes in their own lives.
Fostering a Sense of Hope and Empowerment: Superheroes represent hope in the face of adversity and empower children to believe in their own potential.
Promoting Social and Emotional Learning: Superhero stories can explore complex emotions and moral dilemmas, helping children develop their understanding of right and wrong and their social skills.
Encouraging Teamwork and Collaboration: Many superhero stories emphasize the importance of teamwork, showing how different individuals can come together to achieve a common goal.
Providing a Positive Message: Superheroes can teach valuable lessons about perseverance, kindness, and the importance of doing good, even when it’s difficult.
Why focus on TYA BIPOC Stories?
Focusing on TYA BIPOC stories is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable theatrical landscape. TYA often lacks representation of BIPOC actors, writers, and directors, impacting young audiences and perpetuating systemic biases. By featuring BIPOC stories, TYA can foster a sense of belonging for young BIPOC audiences, empower BIPOC artists, and challenge harmful stereotypes, ultimately building empathy and understanding within the community.
How long will the BIPOC Superhero Project take place?
It’s never going to end… hahahahaha Just kidding.
The curtain will close on all theatre performances by the end of 2026.
But! Part of the project will live on forever! We are putting together (and publishing) a Superhero Almanac! It will feature every play manuscript, including the student playwright scholarship entry.
How can I put up a show in my town/school/community theatre?
If you are interested in producing one of the plays, please contact the playwright directly for information about purchasing (or commissioning) a play.
Who creates the shows?
Each theatre is partnered with a playwright and takes care of the entire production. Which means they create the sets, make the costumes, buy the props, and hire the actors, directors, and crew.
The playwrights, well, they write. That is their superpower! Please check out our Press page to see articles about the plays that have been produced, or our Gallery page to see any of the production shots!
Where can I get more information about a certain playwright?
Easy, go right to our Playwright bio page. Many of the playwrights have links to their websites. If you want to contact a playwright and can’t find their information, please contact us.
Can I buy a script?
Please contact the playwright directly for information about purchasing or commissioning a play.
What does it mean to commission a play?
To commission a play means a theatre company or organization formally hires a playwright to write a new play, typically with a specific topic or theme in mind, and often includes a commitment from the company to potentially produce the play. This is a contractual arrangement where the company provides financial support and resources for the playwright to create the work.
Where can I see a performance?
Shows are taking place all over the country. Keep an eye on the front page of our website, we update current shows as we get the information. You can also check out the theatre page and see if any theatre that is a part of this project is a theatre near you!
Are the shows available online?
Sadly, no. In truth, theater experiences are not readily available online due to factors like production costs, union negotiations, and the unique nature of the live performance experience. Streaming also presents challenges in maintaining the immersive, interactive atmosphere that is characteristic of live theater.
However, you can check out a video of our very first partnership show, Super Aunty, that took place in Honolulu in February of 2024. The video is featured on our front page.
Do you offer school programs or lesson plans?
Great idea! Contact us and let’s talk about it!
How is this project funded?
We are super lucky to have a Superhero who chooses to remain anonymous. Not all superheroes wear capes, as they say.
Can I donate? And how do you spend the funding?
Thank you! We are looking into ways we can safely and securely receive donations online.
In the meantime, reach out to us directly and we’ll be happy to chat about the programming needs and what is funded by the project and how we can join forces.
Contact us
Contact us with any questions about the project, a play, or anything else that our FAQ wasn’t able to answer.
Fill out the form or contact us at bipocsuperheroproject@gmail.com