The ENCORE: Front Page @ CAC

Front Page comprises a trio of highly experienced songwriters, musicians, and vocalists hailing from New Orleans. This durational piece invites audiences to step into the shoes of artists navigating the shifting tides of an industry that has undergone profound transformation since the 1990s.

About Front Page: The Encore

At its core, Front Page: The Encore serves as a celebratory ode to the strides made in diversifying the landscape of music entertainment. With a focus on highlighting the increased representation of women and Black artists, the production showcases the vibrant tapestry of voices now shaping the industry. Through dynamic performances and interactive elements, audiences are invited to witness firsthand the rich contributions of artists who have historically been marginalized within the mainstream.

However, amid the celebration, Front Page: The Encore also confronts the painful realities and pitfalls that persist within the music industry. As the narrative unfolds, audiences are confronted with the harsh realities of systemic barriers, exploitation, and cultural appropriation that continue to plague artists, particularly those from marginalized communities.

The Creator Behind the Vision:

Stephanie McKee-Anderson, Creator & Director

Stephanie McKee-Anderson, renowned for her groundbreaking production GOMELA, is embarking on a new creative journey delving into the complex interplay between artistic ambition and inspiration. With a keen eye on the historical context of youthful artists thrust into the limelight, McKee-Anderson's latest venture revolves around the narrative of Front Page, a seminal 'boy band' from the early 1990s.

In this innovative exploration, McKee-Anderson immerses herself in the world of Front Page, dissecting the dynamics of artistic drive and the often blurred lines between genuine inspiration and manufactured success. Through the lens of the band's original members, McKee-Anderson collaborates across disciplines to craft a multifaceted experience that seamlessly weaves together elements of memory, music, and dance.

At the heart of this interdisciplinary work lies a poignant examination of America's enduring obsession with celebrity culture in the 21st century. By juxtaposing the fleeting allure of fame with the raw passion of emerging artists, McKee-Anderson endeavors to shine a light on both the allure and the pitfalls of pursuing creative expression in a capitalist society.

Through dynamic storytelling and immersive performances, McKee-Anderson invites audiences to confront the paradoxes inherent in the pursuit of artistic fulfillment within a commercialized landscape. Ultimately, her goal is to illuminate the intricate dance between ambition and authenticity, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit amidst the chaos of creative endeavor

About Junebug Productions