Tallahassee, Fla. – Prepare to be uplifted, inspired, and moved as the FAMU Essential Theatre and Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre proudly present its highly anticipated summer production, Wrestling with Angels, A Hip-Hop Kidz Musical, on July 11-12, 2025 in the Charles Winter Wood Theatre at Florida A&M University, 515 Orr Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32307.

Wrestling with Angels is an original stage work written and directed by award-winning playwright James Webb, and musical director Mich’ele Barrington. This captivating new play tells the story of Cassius, a bright and determined angel who has one last mission to earn her wings. She is tasked with guiding Cassandra, a tough and resourceful young orphan with a hardened heart. What begins as a divine assignment quickly becomes a test of compassion, trust, and healing. With each challenge, both characters are transformed, showing audiences that true strength lies in love, friendship, and the willingness to change. Infused with powerful original hip hop music, Wrestling with Angels redefines youth theatre by weaving timeless themes with a fresh, contemporary sound that resonates across generations.

“Wrestling with Angels encourages kids to color outside the lines, to embrace what makes them different, and to channel their energy in ways that uplift themselves and others,” says Webb. “Young performers bring an honesty, curiosity, and emotional depth that reminds me why I write plays in the first place. Their energy isn’t just contagious—it’s essential. They bring the story to life with a sense of urgency and truth that makes the themes resonate even more powerfully for audiences of all ages.”

This production is the culminating event of the Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre summer program, a five-week immersive arts experience for children ages 7 to 16. Throughout the program, students participate in theatre, music, and dance training, as well as creative workshops and cultural excursions, all leading to this exciting, full-scale performance.

Summer camps and senior centers are invited to attend the Friday morning performance at 10:00 a.m. Reservations are required and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. To learn more or to reserve your seats, please contact the FAMU Essential Theatre Box Office at (850) 561-2425.

The Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre was founded by Valencia E. Matthews, Dean of the College of Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities, to honor the legacy of Irene C. Edmonds (1908–1968), a pioneer of children’s theatre.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Willis Fedd
Essential Theatre Marketing Director
willis.fedd@famu.edu

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