Staff Writer
It is time to celebrate Josephine Baker, the First Black International Superstar and a true icon of the 20th century! Born in 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri, Josephine was an American-born singer, actress, dancer, and civil rights activist who achieved only moderate success in the United States but became an international sensation after moving to Europe in 1924.
Now, local legend Tymisha Harris brings her acclaimed one-woman show “Josephine” to Orlando at the Renaissance Theatre Company (the Ren), playing select nights from March 9-19. The biographical musical combines cabaret, theatre, and dance to tell the remarkable life story of Josephine, featuring all her most iconic moments.
Born and raised in Orlando, Harris is excited to bring this new version of her hit show to her hometown. “Even after seven years, the show continues to evolve,” Harris says. “With the release of new classified intelligence from WWII by the French a few years back, we learned much more about Josephine’s time as a spy; and we wanted to incorporate that into the play. With other changes, the expanded show now runs a full 90 minutes. Orlando is my home. It’s always been my favorite place to debut new material, and I knew the Ren would be the perfect place for us to make our homecoming with this new version.”
Donal Rupe, Co-Founder of the Ren, echoes her enthusiasm for this production. “At Renaissance Theatre Company, we champion original work created by local artists. Josephine is written, directed, and performed by some of the most talented artists in Orlando, and it tells a beautiful story about one of history’s most iconic performers. We’re so proud to feature this work on our stage.”
The Renaissance Theatre Company was established in February 2021 by Rupe and Chris Kampmeier to showcase innovative theater productions in Orlando and other regions. Through fair pay for artists, sustainability, and diversity, the company hopes to grow a new audience for theatre in Orlando. So, take the chance to witness “Josephine” live at 415 E. Princeton Street, Orlando, FL 32803. Tickets are on sale for just $30 at https://rentheatre.com/. Celebrate the incredible life and legacy of Josephine Baker with Tymisha Harris and the talented team behind this stunning production.
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