Feb. 15, 2023 - Theater, dance, song, and creative expression from the African-American perspective was brought to Litzsinger School as The Black Rep Theater of Soul performed the play “Turn-Up.” Written by Naima Carter Russell and Eugene H. Russel IV and directed by Heather Beal, the story is about Coach Carver who is discouraged by the lack of help at the community garden. Following a mail delivery mixup, he regains hope and grows his biggest turnip yep. The community rallies behind him to decide what to do with it and offers lessons of perseverance and friendship.

“I thought it was pretty funny,” said 7th grader Kaiden Clebolt. “My favorite part was when everyone worked together to pull the turnip out of the ground.” 

Actor in the play Taijha Silas is a 2nd year AmeriCorps Fellow with the Black Rep. She says the story gives students a sense of wonder and excitement. The warm welcome from students and staff made her role as an actor that much easier. 

“We perform a show at least once every day of the week and each school is different,” said Silas. “The students at Litzsinger were such a lively audience. They wanted to get involved and know what was going on and the attention they provided us was great.”

“The great thing about the Black Rep is that they bring the theater to students,” said Kathy Russ, Litzsinger principal. “That allows our students to have experiences they otherwise would not get to enjoy. Because the length is only 45 minutes, that allows them just enough time to be attentive and soak in all that the arts have to offer.”

The Black Rep's visit to Litzsinger is part of the school's month-long celebration of Black History. More activities include a gallery walk on Feb. 27 and guest readers on Feb. 28.