Ashe prepares to 'Lift Up Jamaica' - Musical features Sharona Jonas

The Ashe Company in partnership with Dance Theatre Xaymaca (DTX) will host a joint season of performances with the restaging of the award-winning musical, Lift Up Jamaica, in tribute to Jamaica's 50th year of Independence.

The musical which was originally developed in 2000, has toured the United States and Europe. It follows young people, from three very different socio-economic and political backgrounds, who must overcome their prejudices, phobias, 'isms' and 'schisms' before realising that they each have a role in the mission to make Jamaica better. Out of this cause comes the musical tag line: 'Work as a People. Lift up Jamaica'. According to Michael Holgate, artistic director of Ashe, the joint season with Xaymaca will be the theatrical experience of the year.

"I've always wanted to lift the bar for Jamaican theatre and working with DTX, we have. Jamaicans can expect a show, similar to the best Broadway experience when they come see Lift Up Jamaica," Holgate said.

Barbara McDaniel, artistic director of DTX, got the idea and shared that that spark spawned the birth of this joint musical production.

A new cast member that will join the ranks for the new showing is 2012 Digicel Stars winner, Sharona Jonas. Jonas stepped into the living rooms of many Jamaicans this past summer and wowed the nation with her sultry voice and flexibility. According to executive director of the Ashe Company, "This is just one of many surprises that patrons will see from us in our 50th year of Independence. This musical is a must-see," Wilson shared.

The story of Lift Up Jamaica is a poignant one that encapsulates the essence of the Jamaican proverbial uptown versus downtown rivalry. Set in an expressionistic Jamaican community, this musical production takes its audience on a journey through the rich Jamaican culture seeing it through the eyes of both strata of the said society. The story unfolds as Vivene, the leader of the Downtown crew, and Monica, the same of the Uptown socialites, are at odds for their divergent views on how both groups should live their lives and conduct themselves in the community and the larger society. They engage in heated musical duels, singing songs with themes of boast and envy.

The production will be staged at the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts, at UWI.

- GG