Passing Strange

Get ready to embark on a thrilling musical journey with Passing Strange. This Tony Award-winning show, which inspired a Spike Lee movie, follows the life of a young Black musician, known as Youth, played by Charles Grant, as he searches for his artistic and personal identity.

Set against the backdrop of the 1970s and 80s, Rodney Hicks directs this exhilarating story that travels from the gospel churches of South Central LA to the punk rock clubs of Amsterdam and Berlin – sex, drugs and rock n roll anyone? Filled with electrifying rock music, soulful ballads, and powerful storytelling, Passing Strange is a triumph of live theater.

An all-Portland cast – featuring Delphon ‘DJ’ Curtis Jr, Jelani Kee, Jasonica Moore, LaRhonda Steele, Lauren Steele, and Andrea Vernae alongside Charles Grant – takes the audience on the journey of Youth’s quest to find himself, supported by a live band under the direction of Kennedy Verrett. With themes of race, art, and rebellion, this show is as relevant today, if not more so, as it was when it first premiered on Broadway.

“It means a lot to be able to bring this particular telling of Passing Strange to Portland audiences,” says director Hicks. “There is something unique and magical about the Pacific Northwest, it is a place where I believe one can find themselves and step into their soul being here.”

Don’t miss your chance to see this groundbreaking revival production of a cult classic! Buy your tickets now and prepare to be moved, healed and inspired by Passing Strange. Hicks continues: “I think this production is going to be the show you didn’t know you needed to see. Great music, great onstage artistry, with a feeling of joy, love, and healing that I think you will feel in your bones.”

Shows run April 17 – May 26. Information, and tickets can be found here.