May 10, 2024
This year, Oakland University’s Department of Theatre will present Caribbean Dreamin as its annual children’s theatre production.
Based on Caribbean folk tales from Cuba, Haiti and Puerto Rico, the production traces the development of the steel band from its origins in Africa drumming through colonial repression to the modern day steel drum of Trinidad and Tobago.
The production was conceived and directed by Kerro Knox III, professor of theatre and associate director of the School of Music, Theatre and Dance, and follows in the traditions of his previous shows, Anansi and Serengeti, which were both based on African folklore, and Just So Stories, after the work of Rudyard Kipling.
“The show is aimed toward elementary age groups, but there is plenty to appeal to all ages with the catchy music, lively dance and fun stories,” Knox said. “Student choreographers and designers have been an integral part of devising this exciting new theatrical experience.”
DeNetria Gibson, an acting major at OU, said she was proud to help choreograph the show because it allowed her to delve deeper into the cultures of the Caribbean.
“I crafted most of the choreography with the help of one of my relatives, and the rest came from research,” she said. “With the help of many in the show, my friend Tuger and I were able to create very fun and informative choreography.”
The production also features Caribbean music arranged by Musical Director and Special Lecturer Patrick Fitzgibbon, which will be performed by 12 students from the School of Music, Theatre and Dance, all of whom perform in all three art forms.
“I love the versatility of this show,” said John Scott, a dance major at OU who is playing multiple roles in the production. “It includes singing, dancing, acting, and best of all — live music! Our creative process was so much fun to participate in, as each of us contributed knowledge of our crafts, and combined them to tell the story of the evolution of the steel band.”
Performances will take place in Varner Hall on the campus of Oakland University on Friday, May 17 at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., and on Sunday, May 19 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $8 for seniors, and $6 for students and children, and can be purchased online at etix.com.
The production will also be on tour from May 20-31 at local elementary schools. Bookings are still available for the tour dates through Emma Garrett at [email protected].