The Rise of Josephine Baker

Inspired by the extraordinary life of Josephine Baker, The Rise of Josephine Baker follows the African American performer as she escapes segregation-era America to become an international sensation.

Arriving in 1920s Paris during the dazzling Jazz Age, she prepares for her breakthrough in La Revue Nègre, a sensational production which ignited controversy and propelled her to fame across Europe.

Marking 100 years since her iconic Banana Skirt Dance, the show revisits a performer both celebrated and contested, prompting reflections on race and desire.

With a colourful cast of characters shaping her image and career, from artist Paul Colin to lover Pepito Abatino and theatre producer André Daven, Josephine embarks on a journey to find success on her own terms.

Rooted in archival research from the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, The Rise of Josephine Baker captures life at the threshold of international stardom during the era of Le Tumulte Noir - The Black Craze.

With ambition, romance, and hedonism abound - Paris awaits darling…
 

Written by Shani Gray
Directed by Jordi M. Carter
 

Presented by Gray Stripe Productions
 

Cast
Shani Gray as Josephine Baker
Christoph L. Dorocant as Paul Colin
Robert De Domenici as Pepito Abatino & ensemble
Philip Bayntun as André Daven & ensemble

Age recommendation: 12+