The Return of Young Boy: A New Musical by Keenan Scott II and Tre Matthews
October 18, 2023
Keenan Scott II & Tre Matthews make their 54 Below debut with a showcase of The Return of Young Boy, an epic new musical featuring a dynamic cast of uniquely divine characters and a score that will have you wanting more.
Upon returning to an unfamiliar home after a five-year trek to become the next griot after the death of his grandfather, Prophet, Young Boy is soon reunited with his best friend and first love as he finds out his grandfather wasn’t the man, he once thought him to be.
The world of this musical sounds, feels, looks and embodies the culture of New York City while grasping firmly onto the imagination and originality of classic musicals like The Wiz. Inspired by African folklore and ancient civilizations, thematically The Return of Young Boy will explore family, generational trauma, PTSD and the tribal nature of humanity. The songs will be an amalgamation of rhythm and blues, hip hop, gospel, amapiano, and SLAM poetry to create an innovative tapestry of music.
Book by Keenan Scott II (Thoughts of a Colored Man)
Music & lyrics by Keenan Scott II and Tre Matthews (Be.Leave.)
Arrangements and music direction by Rashad McPherson (Bayard Rustin: Inside Ashland)
Directed by Steve H. Broadnax III (Thoughts of a Colored Man, The Hot Wing King)
Featuring:
Bodega Bamz (“SMILF”)
Drew Drake (“Law and Order,” Bonnarro Music Festival)
Crystal Fauntleroy (Dreamgirls)
Roya Marsh (National SLAM Poetry Champion, How to Make it in Black America)
Esau Pritchett (Thoughts of a Colored Man)
Alexis Tidwell (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical national tour)
Vladimir Versailles (“Public Morals,” Donogoo Off-Broadway)
Wayne Wilson (The Gospel According to Heather Off-Broadway)
There will also a special announcement made the night of. Come join us for an exciting evening of powerhouse performances and new musical theater!
Please note that all artists and acts are subject to change at any time.
