Free to Be You & Me is a performing arts project created and produced by Kerri Edge & the Edge School of the Arts.

Audiences will watch in amazement as ESOTA students & staff transform Laurelton West Playground into a Broadway Theater/3 ring circus - like setting making creative use of and activating the community space.

Set to the classic album of the same name created by actress Marlo Thomas. The work uses dance to illustrate songs and stories sung or told by celebrities including Rosey Grier, Cicely Tyson, Michael Jackson, Roberta Flack, Shirley Jones, and Diana Ross. The project salutes basic values from an Afro-centric standpoint such as individuality, tolerance, collective work, creativity, forgiveness and acceptance. A major thematic message is that anyone—no matter what their race, age, color or creed —can achieve anything.

The dance illustration was commissioned by Council Member Adrienne Adams of Council District 28 in 2020 and presented via Zoom as part of an initiative to keep young artists engaged in their craft during the COVID-19 pandemic. Selvena Brooks - Powers of Council District 31, I.Daneek Miller of Council District 27 and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards formerly of Council District 31 bring the virtual performance to the live community stage with funding from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.

The program is presented by ESOTA as part of the GREEN / ARTS LIVE NYC initiative. GREEN / ARTS LIVE NYC is supported by the New York Community Trust and the Con Edison Arts Al Fresco Series.  The fund is administered by City Parks Foundation and is overseen by the Parks and Plazas Coalition.

To learn more and register, visit Eventbrite