2023/2024 Season
With a powerful original score filled with jazz and Black roots music, NORTH is an uplifting story set against the backdrop of the Underground Railroad. Created by composer, musician, and vocalist Ashli St. Armant, this dynamic musical returns to Chandler on the Steena Murray Mainstage after its triumphant debut last year.
NORTH follows Lawrence and his mother, Minnie, as they escape the Deep South and travel North through the Underground Railroad to find freedom. With a route that takes them through Louisiana’s bayous, the bustling city of New Orleans, and the young town of Lawrence, Kansas, St. Armant’s fresh and original music reflects the optimism, bravery, wonder, and suspense of freedom seekers.
To complement the story, the musical genres in NORTH are equal parts jazz, musical theatre, and St. Armant’s own signature style. For inspiration, she drew from an array of musical heroes, including Nat King Cole, Mahalia Jackson, Fela Kuti, and Stephen Sondheim. Songs include “Never,” “Git On Board,”“Oh What These Trees Have Seen,” “On The Run,” “Head Straight, Shoulders Back,” and more.
"NORTH is about relationships, grit, betrayal, ingenuity, and finding joy. It's about humanity" - Ashli St. Armant
**This theatrical production has been created for all audiences. However, content may not be suitable for patrons under the age of 10. To purchase youth tickets for this performance, please contact the box office at 480-782-2680*
More About NORTH
NORTH: The Musical is co-commissioned by four performing arts centers from across the U.S.: the Lied Center of Lawrence, Kansas, Chandler Center for the Arts in Chandler, Arizona, the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa, California, and Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio.
Meet the Cast, Crew, and Creative:
Chandler Public Library Book Lists:
