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See the world premiere theatrical adaptation of Born on the Water during this special family event, sponsored by Beyond the Book.
The DC Public Library Foundation and the Canady Foundation for the Arts will present the world premiere theatrical adaptation of Born on the Water, based on the acclaimed children’s book by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renée Watson from The 1619 Project. Directed by Tony Award–nominated producer and multi-hyphenate artist Marjuan Canady, the production is brought to life by the CFA Repertory Theatre and is recommended for audiences ages 5 and up.
This inaugural stage production reimagines the book’s poetic language, historical resonance, and striking imagery as a vibrant, immersive performance. Blending storytelling, music, and dance, Born on the Water invites young audiences and families into a powerful theatrical experience that celebrates history, imagination, and cultural memory.
Can't attend at 12 pm? Register for the 3:00 pm show here.
The Canady Foundation for the Arts will present the first-ever theatrical performance of Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renee Watson, the powerful children’s book from the landmark 1619 Project. Directed by Tony-nominated producer and multi-hyphenate artist Marjuan Canady and brought to life by the CFA Repertory Theatre, this production is designed for kids ages 5 and up.
This premiere stage adaptation transforms the book’s rich history, poetic language, and vivid imagery into an immersive experience featuring dynamic storytelling, music, and dance—offering an educational and culturally enriching performance for audiences of all ages.
The Canady Foundation for the Arts (CFA) is dedicated to enriching young lives through arts education, performance opportunities, and mentorship. By prioritizing theatre for young audiences and amplifying voices of color, CFA cultivates the next generation of artists, storytellers, and changemakers.
The 1619 Project’s lyrical picture book in verse chronicles the consequences of slavery and the history of Black resistance in the United States, thoughtfully rendered by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and Newbery honor-winning author Renée Watson.
A young student receives a family tree assignment in school, but she can only trace back three generations. Grandma gathers the whole family, and the student learns that 400 years ago, in 1619, their ancestors were stolen and brought to America by white slave traders.
But before that, they had a home, a land, a language. She learns how the people said to be born on the water survived.
With powerful verse and striking illustrations by Nikkolas Smith, Born on the Water provides a pathway for readers of all ages to reflect on the origins of American identity.
AGE GROUP: | Adults | 5 - 12 Years Old | 13 - 19 Years Old (Teens) |
EVENT TYPE: | Musical Performance | Family Program | Exhibit |
