In honour of Black History Month, the Grand is thrilled to re-broadcast the online version of Alexandra Kane’s GRAND RE:OPENING FESTIVAL. This powerful 3-part presentation features Finding Black Joy, A Grave and a Mirror.

The FREE stream is available now through February 28th. No registration required - just click the link to view.

How can there possibly be such a thing as Black joy, when racism, specifically anti-Black racism, exists in systems and people? How do we find peace and joy when there is so much stacked against us? As the world uncovers systemic oppression and violence and what that means to Black people, we are invited to take a critical look at our own selves and how we have helped shaped these experiences for others.

To commemorate Black History Month in 2022, the Grand Theatre is pleased to offer this free re-broadcast of one of its Re:Opening Festival offerings curated and created by Alexandra Kane.

Lead activist for Black Lives Matter London, Founding member of Black London Network, and artist Alexandra Kane has curated a truth-telling piece in Finding Black Joy as she presents racism in an unavoidable way and defines the strength, resilience, peace, and love that is Black Joy.

This 60 minute, 3-part piece uses storytelling through song, text, multi-media and spoken word to shine a light on the raw truth and consequences of anti-Black racism.

Interactive film installation, A Grave and A Mirror unfolds on the Auburn Developments Stage, followed by a spoken word poetry reading in the Drewlo Lounge by 19 year-old Nigerian-Canadian slam poet and author, Fauzia Agbonhin.

In Part 3, viewers will experience the dynamic and talented ensemble of performers in Finding Black Joy, directed by Vanessa Sears featuring songs including: “Brand New Day”, “They Don’t Really Care About Us”, “Total Praise” and “I’m Here”.

★ Content Advisory: This presentation includes racially-charged language and references to racial trauma.

To view, click HERE.

Photo: Alexandra Kane. © 2021 Mai Tislon.