The Tricklock Theatre has produced yet another piece of visual and social splendor with the play "Hip Hop Prophets."
You'd be a fool to miss out on this one - the play strips away negative, preconceived notions regarding the genre of hip-hop and creates a positive, open-minded view.
The production includes a captivating plot, a live DJ, talented break-dancers and beautifully written poetry.
The play takes place in New York City and focuses on the character Sean's struggle to find a balance within his life - to reach enlightenment via the "abandonment of attachments."
His quest for Zen knowledge is encouraged by a Jazz/Soul prophet, Ben, who teaches and guides him along the way. He also receives support from his close friends, all of whom add unique elements to the comic aspects of the play.
When approached by Naomi, an art gallery owner who takes an interest in his talents as a graffiti artist, Sean must decide whether or not to paint for her and she, in turn, must decide whether or not to exploit an artistic form that belongs on the street.
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Each character in the play has a personal struggle aside from the main storyline, making the show even more intriguing. For the whole hour and a half, the play roots for the triumph of love, knowledge and acceptance.
Writer Ross Kelly, who also plays the part of Sean, feels that these qualities are integral to the explanation of hip-hop culture.
"The hip-hop prophecy is the discovery of truth within yourself, of the truth within your soul," he said.
Kelly added that his inspiration for the play was deeply rooted in his personal beliefs. "There's a lot of Buddhist and Biblical truisms throughout this piece," he said. "Those are both my spiritual influences."
Actress Alli Bivins, who plays Naomi, said she believes people should see the show because "the whole play teaches about balance and forgiveness."
Sabina Zuniga, who plays Shila, felt that this play teaches people to think past the typical stereotypes of hip-hop.
"Hip-hop isn't just the way you dress or the music you listen to - it's the way you think. It's a culture and it's a big culture here in New Mexico," Zuniga said.
Actor Jayro Nious, who plays Chris, supported Zuniga's notion.
"It seems as if older generations may be afraid of hip-hop because they don't know much about it or they only see a one-sided version," he said. "Being face-to-face with it in a theatrical venue allows them to examine it a little closer and appreciate the elements of hip-hop as art."
As if these weren't enough reasons to see the play, there is one final point of interest regarding its production. The play was chosen to take part in the Hip Hop Theatre Festival in Washington, D.C. in July, where a variety of acts centered on the hip-hop genre will be performed for four days. The acts include dance, music, theater and even a performance by New York's DEF Poetry Jam.
The cast and crew feel honored to participate, as this will allow the entire nation to experience Albuquerque's talent. The Tricklock production will help fund the trip to Washington in addition to preparing the actors and crew for the festival. Donations are also being accepted to help with traveling expenses and can be given during production times or by calling the Tricklock Theatre.
"Hip Hop Prophets" will run July 4-14. Friday and Saturday shows start at 8 p.m. and Sunday shows begin at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $8 for students and senior citizens. To reserve tickets, call the Tricklock Theatre at 254-8393, or visit www.tricklock.com.
To find out more about the Hip Hop Theatre Festival, visit its Web site at www.hiphoptheatrefest.com.
