BAM Adds Jacqueline Woodson’s New York Premieres to BAMkids 2024 Lineup

BAMkids is thrilled to announce two new captivating live performances added to its 2024 winter/spring season, designed for young audiences and families.

The exciting additions are New York premiere performances, reimagining the beloved literary works of acclaimed author Jacqueline Woodson. With original direction by Schele Williams (The Wiz, Motown the Musical) and current direction by Tavia Riveé Jefferson, Woodson’s powerful narrative, Show Way The Musical, will transform into an enthralling theatrical production. Additionally, choreographer Hope Boykin brings Woodson’s storytelling to life through the mesmerizing dance piece, The Other Side.These shows empower young minds, offering a fresh perspective on the world of literature and drama. 

Woodson, celebrated for her impactful writing across various genres, brings renewed life to her work on stage at BAM. Winner of numerous Newbery Honors, National Book and Coretta Scott King Awards, and the MacArthur “Genius” Grant, Woodson and her award-winning books have connected people, art, and stories for decades. Her works, a testament to resilience and human connection, continue to captivate hearts worldwide.

MacArthur “Genius” Grant winner Jacqueline Woodson’s Newbery Honor-winning book of history, love, and resilience, Show Way, becomes a stage adaptation with original direction by Schele Williams, current direction by Tavia Riveé Jefferson, and new music by Tyrone L. Robinson. This moving, lyrical account based on Woodson’s own family pays tribute to women whose strength and knowledge illuminate their daughters’ lives—from slavery to freedom, through segregation, freedom marches, and the fight for literacy.

Clover’s mom says it isn’t safe to cross the fence that segregates their African-American side of town from the white side where Anna lives. But when the two girls strike up a friendship, they’ll find a clever way to get around the grown-up rules together. Twenty years after its first publication, MacArthur Genius Grant Winner Jacqueline Woodson’s simple yet powerful book The Other Side comes to life in an evening-length dance piece from choreographer and dance educator Hope Boykin. When literal and figurative fences keep us apart, can we find the courage—and creativity—to knock them down?

After select performances, families are invited to join a post-show talkback with the award-winning author. These interactive sessions offer young audiences a unique opportunity to engage with creatives, gain deeper insights into the creative process, and delve into the subtleties of storytelling. It’s a window for young audiences to witness theater come alive, giving many their initial behind-the-scenes glimpse.

To better support the needs and enjoyment of neurodiverse audience members, both productions will offer relaxed performances. Modifications will include enhancing multi-sensory elements of the show, eliminating blackouts and sudden theatrical cues, maintaining moderate house lighting throughout the performance, lowering the overall volume of sound elements, allowing for audience vocalization and movement, and allowing for patron exits and entrances whenever needed.

Additionally, the beloved BAMkids Film Festival returns in February, promising cinematic joy for young film enthusiasts in partnership with the Northwest Film Forum and Melbourne International Animation Festival.

Show Way The Musical will be at BAM March 16 & 17, and The Other Side will be at BAM March 2 & 3. Tickets are on sale now. Visit BAM.org/bamkids24 to book.