How does one rise up after being knocked down? Find out in “Bounce – the Opera” at Paerdegat Park on June 25, 26, and 27.
Based on the Greek myth “The Flight of Icarus,” “Bounce” is the tale of a high school basketball star Isacc “Ike the Flight” Harris, who is bound for stardom, but is benched due to the actions of a jealous teammate. Can he rebound? The mix of Greek drama, Shakespeare, “Carmen,” the movie “Grease,” and hip-hop deal with themes facing today’s kids, including teen violence.
Local high school students are paired with seasoned professionals and are integrated into the production, which is performed on an actual basketball court, using the powerful medium of basketball. They become the players, the cheerleaders, and Flight’s classmates and teammates. Local and national community leaders also play a number of the adult roles.
Ardea Arts has been developing “Bounce” in partnership with The University of Kentucky Opera Theatre. The production’s partners and advocates include prominent local Council members, community leaders, and basketball-industry advocates. This project is made possible in part by the support of The Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund, The John and Jody Arnhold Foundation, with in-kind contributions from Boylan Bottling Company, Newman’s Own, Inc. and Marquee Screen Printing.
“Bounce – the Opera,” June 25, 26, and 27 at 6 pm. Tickets are free, but bring your own chair!
Paerdegat Park (E. 40th Street and Farragut Road in Canarsie, www.ardea
