Black Pearl Sings! Tickets

Black Pearl Sings! is a touring performer and historically rooted musical that brings to life the struggle, resilience, and cultural heritage of African American song. Created by playwright Frank Higgins, the work reimagines the Lomax/Lead Belly saga through two distinct perspectives: a Library of Congress songcatcher and a jailed African-American singer. The production blends dramatic storytelling with powerful folk songs and spirituals, exploring themes of exploitation and empowerment. Though the 2025 nationwide tour is not publicly listed, Alliance for New Music-Théâtre and partner venues across the DC region continue to present related works, ensuring regional audiences have ongoing access to this important piece of theatre.

We’ve got you covered for info on the creative team, historical context, and where to catch Black Pearl Sings! in the coming months. Secure your seats through trusted producing houses like Ford's Theatre, Milwaukee Repertory, and Alliance for New Music-Theatre, and follow official social channels for updates.

Biography overview: Black Pearl Sings! centers on two women navigating the legacies of song and storytelling within a brutal era of American history. The Library of Congress songcatcher acts as an archivist and advocate for cultural preservation, while the jailed singer embodies a voice that must be heard despite oppression. The work has been staged in notable venues such as Ford's Theatre (Washington, DC, 2009 with Tonya Pinkins), Milwaukee Repertory Theatre Stackner Cabaret (2010s), Alliance for New Music-Theatre (DC) 2019, and Florida Studio Theatre (Sarasota) 2023. Tonya Pinkins, who originated Pearl at Ford's Theatre, is a Tony Award winner, underscoring the project’s high caliber and historical significance.

Discography highlights: While Black Pearl Sings! is a theatrical work rather than a traditional album, its musical selections feature historical folk songs and spirituals drawn from the American songbook—reinterpreted for the stage. Expect performances of songs rooted in the Lomax collection and related folk/field recordings that illuminate cultural heritage and resilience.

Upcoming tour info: As of 2025, a nationwide tour is not publicly listed. The Alliance for New Music-Theatre and partner theatres continue presenting related works in the DC region and nearby markets. For the latest dates, follow the producing houses’ official channels and the National Park Service connections that help preserve and present this material. If you’re in the DC area or neighboring communities, keep an eye on event calendars for Ford's Theatre, Milwaukee Repertory, and Alliance events, as they frequently host related performances and conversations.