More Than 75 New Orleans Youth to Star in the World Premiere of ABCT Production ON DA BLOCK!

More than 75 talented young performers from across the Greater New Orleans area will take center stage this July in the world premiere of ON DA BLOCK!, an original Hip-Hop Musical presented by the Anthony Bean Community Theater & Acting School (ABCT).

Written and directed by acclaimed New Orleans Theater Artist Anthony Bean, the production serves as the grand finale of the Anthony Bean Performing Arts Summer Camp, where participants have spent six weeks developing their acting, singing, and dancing skills. The result is an energetic, inspiring production that celebrates youth, family, resilience, and the unique culture of New Orleans.

Set against the backdrop of neighborhood life in the Crescent City, ON DA BLOCK! follows a diverse group of young people as they navigate friendships, family expectations, first crushes, peer pressure, social media, and dreams for the future. Blending original hip-hop music, dynamic choreography, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling, the musical offers audiences an authentic look at the experiences shaping today’s youth while emphasizing the importance of community and hope.

Bean, Founder and Artistic Director of ABCT, said the production is about creating opportunities for young people to discover their talents and confidence.

“This production is about much more than entertainment,” Bean said. “It gives our young people a professional stage on which to discover their voices, build confidence, and believe in themselves. Our goal is to show them that their stories matter.”

The production features a talented creative team that includes Assistant Director Ateja Lewis, Music Director Mecca Notes, and Choreographer Real Washington. Adding to the professional experience, the stage set has been designed and constructed by the New Orleans Opera Association, providing young performers with a theatrical environment typically reserved for major productions.

Performances will be held at the Southern University at New Orleans Performing Arts Center, located at 6400 Press Drive, on Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, at 8 p.m., with a final matinee performance on Sunday, July 12, at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under. They are available through Eventbrite or by calling the Anthony Bean Community Theater Box Office at (504) 862-PLAY (7529).

Community members, educators, churches, youth organizations, families, and supporters of the arts are encouraged to attend this uplifting world premiere and celebrate the next generation of New Orleans performers as they share their voices, creativity, and passion on stage.