Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughter (and One on Fleek)

Based on a popular children’s book, “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughter (and One on Fleek)”, Chinaka Hodge’s world premiere play is an African-American Cinderella story. It addresses such relevant themes as combating bullying and the rewards of kindness and compassion, and culminating with an empowering, feminist ending. First- through fifth-grade students from John Muir, Rosa Parks and Claire Lilienthal public schools performed in the production, directed by Ryan Marchand and Samantha Jackson. The kids also attended a live performance of the African American Shakespeare Company’s “Cinderella” and enjoyed a special workshop with the actress playing the title role, as well as the company’s founder, Sherri Young. Artistic collaborators included choreographer Cassie Alcudia Thomas; musician Imanuel Junaedy and his jazz group; painter Mark Harris; and interns from the University of San Francisco.