WRITING
REVENGE OF A KING
Written by Herb Newsome
One of the most recognizable tragedies in Shakeaspeare’s theatrical cannon has been transplanted from Denmark to the gritty streets of New York, in this hip hop musical. The story follows Hammond L. King, an aspiring hip hop artist, as he deals with overcoming his father’s mysterious death while simultaneously learning to accept his mother’s untimely marriage. Confusion, doubt and thoughts of retribution take over as new elements unfold leading him down a path of self destruction. Using the four elements of Hip Hop, DJing, Breakdancing, Graffiti Art and MCing, the story holds updates the classic and give its A modern feel. The show premiered at The Producers Club in New York City in 2004 then went on to have several productions across the country: Kuntu Repertory Theater (Pittsburgh), Black Theater Troupe (Phoenix), Cinncinatti Black Theater, Paul Robeson Theater (Buffalo), State Theater (State College, PA), NY International Fringe Festival, National Black Theater Festival (Winston Salem) and internationally at the National Arts Festival is Grahmnstown, South Africa.
BREAK IT DOWN
Written and Performed by Herb Newsome
A multimedia show that tells the story of the early days of Hip Hop through a live performance of the four elements: DJing, MCing B-Boying and Graffiti Art. Explore the history behing the music set in the Bronx, NY, during a time where urban decay and gang culture inspired a people to create their own form of expression. Playing 10 characters using music, dance, video, graffiti and rhyming, the audience will be taken on a journey to the past to discover how each of the elements came into existence.
The show premiered at the United Solo Festival 2018 in New York City and was later produced at Grey Studios in Los Angeles in 2019, and New Horizon Theater in Pittsburgh 2020.
FREEMAN IN PARIS
Written and Performed by Herb Newsome
A one man show that tells the story of a group of black jazz musicians and their search for freedom in an America which had denied it for so long. The question being asked is "What ever happened to Cater Freeman?". Through testimonials, from those who knew him, and vivid flashbacks, we are transplanted back to the bebop era of jazz where the music was vibrant and the country was gearing up for a major change. The artist transforms into 10 different characters and features live jazz performed on 5 different instruments.
PROBLEM CHILD
Co-Written by Herb Newsome and Matt McManus
A one man show about a young kid born to a middle class family in Long Island, NY tells the tale of his life through the struggle with a disjointed family, a food addiction and the search to find that superpower that exists in all of us.
