Promotional poster (The New Renaissance, Joe Davis)
Ancestors Rising: Ascension takes you on a journey that is equal parts comedic and cosmic. Written and directed by award-winning poet Joe Davis, Ancestors Rising just concluded its run at Minneapolis’ historic Southern Theater. This uplifting, Afrofuturistic odyssey explores Black liberation, transformation, and the multiverse—all with a quirky sense of humor.
Jah, the everyman protagonist of the play, has a single goal: to reach the “highest timeline.” And what exactly is the “highest timeline,” you ask? According to Jah, it is a place where all people are truly healed and free, a place where Jah can finally be the most evolved version of himself. His best friend, the Oracle, an ethereal, immortal being with aspirations of becoming a famous rapper, wants to join him. But, after one of them implies that they might be better off on their own, the pair get into an argument so ugly they split up, storming off in opposite directions. We follow Jah, who now must embark on a quest to find himself … and his friend.
Turns out finding one’s highest self is no easy feat. Along the way, Jah encounters both foes (the antagonizing Lil Juicy, who represents all of the negative parts of Jah; and Mandala, a crazed time traveler who doesn’t believe in the highest timeline and has been hardened by his failed attempts to prevent human suffering) and allies (the Black Kings, the Black Queens, and Highest Timeline Jah, who offer sage wisdom that goes over Jah’s head completely).
We watch Jah struggle against his obstacles and get discouraged, but he doesn’t give up. He bravely perseveres, facing off with Lil Juicy on his own terms (Jah rejects his challenge to fight and invites him to dance instead), reconciling with the Oracle, and proving Mandala wrong. The story ends with a celebration: Jah achieves his dream of ascension, and the cast comes together to share their hopes for the future, for a real-life “highest timeline.”
Joe Davis’ Ancestors Rising: Ascension is an innovative theater production that combines music (accompanied by a live jazz band!), dance, hip hop, spoken word, film, and fashion to powerful effect. Its all-star cast of actors and artists bring to life a message of positivity and love, and leaves audiences feeling inspired to spread the word.
“Ancestors Rising: Ascension” at the Southern Theater in Minneapolis, MN, 8/25/24
—
Joe Davis is a Minneapolis-based artist, activist, and author. His work can be found on his website, and you can follow him at joedavispoetry on Instagram. Visit the Southern Theater website for information on upcoming performances and productions.
