Don’t Miss ‘The Sassy Seniors’ at OnyxFest This Weekend!
Indianapolis’s vibrant theater scene is buzzing with OnyxFest, the city’s premier festival dedicated to showcasing the incredible talents of Black playwrights. This weekend marks your final opportunity to experience one of its most heartwarming productions, “The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor,” right here in our community. Don’t let this limited engagement slip by!
OnyxFest: A Celebration of Black Playwrights
OnyxFest stands as a significant cultural event in Indianapolis, offering a vital platform for Black playwrights to share their stories and perspectives. Hosted at the Herron School of Art and Design, the festival fosters creativity and provides audiences with unique, compelling theatrical experiences. “The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor” exemplifies the festival’s mission, bringing a fresh, engaging narrative to the stage that resonates with local audiences.
“The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor”: A Story of Community and Connection
Authored by Evbony Chappel, “The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor” tells the delightful story of residents within a senior living community who band together to assist a local youth group facing challenges. The play beautifully highlights the power of intergenerational support and community involvement, proving that age is no barrier to making a positive impact. It’s a tale filled with laughter, wisdom, and the undeniable spirit of coming together for a common cause.
Meet the Heart of Ryder Manor
The play features remarkable performances by Cie Monet Johnson and Tracey Wynn, who bring their characters to life with depth and humor. Wynn portrays Jenny Hall, a spirited 80-year-old known for her feisty demeanor and eagerness to offer counsel. Johnson takes on the role of Kelly Johnson, a dedicated worker at the senior community who relies on Jenny’s guidance, showcasing a powerful intergenerational bond that forms the emotional core of the production.
| Character | Actor | Key Traits |
|---|---|---|
| Jenny Hall | Tracey Wynn | Feisty 80-year-old, offers counsel, community-minded. |
| Kelly Johnson | Cie Monet Johnson | Senior community worker, seeks guidance, forms deep bond. |
Why You Should See This Local Gem
“The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor” offers more than just entertainment; it delivers a heartwarming message about the importance of community engagement across all age groups. As Tracey Wynn noted, “No matter what the age, it’s okay to be involved in community efforts.” The play masterfully blends humor with poignant moments, creating an experience that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking. Supporting this local production at OnyxFest is a fantastic way to celebrate Indianapolis’s vibrant artistic community and its talented individuals.
Final Chances to Experience the Seniors!
This is truly your last call! The final performances of “The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor” are scheduled for:
- **Friday, November 14, 2025, at 7 p.m.**
- **Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 5 p.m.**
The play is staged at the Herron School of Art and Design. OnyxFest is proudly presented by the Africana Repertory Theatre of IU Indianapolis (A.R.T.I.), IU School of Liberal Arts at IU Indianapolis, and IU Indianapolis Office of Community Engagement, in partnership with IF Theatre, the home of the IndyFringe Festival. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to nurturing and showcasing diverse theatrical voices in our city.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is OnyxFest?
OnyxFest is an Indianapolis theater festival dedicated to celebrating the work of Black playwrights, providing a platform for diverse voices and stories. - Where are the performances of “The Sassy Seniors of Ryder Manor” held?
All performances take place at the Herron School of Art and Design in Indianapolis. - What is the main theme of the play?
The play centers on a senior living community coming together to support a youth group, highlighting themes of community involvement, intergenerational bonding, and mutual support. - Who are the lead actors in the play?
The lead roles are performed by Cie Monet Johnson and Tracey Wynn, who portray Kelly Johnson and Jenny Hall, respectively. - How can I purchase tickets for the show?
Tickets can be purchased online by visiting indyfringe.org/onyxfest/.
Don’t miss the opportunity to laugh, reflect, and be inspired by this unique local production that champions community and connection. Grab your tickets and support Indianapolis’s thriving arts scene!
Last chance to see Sassy Seniors at OnyxFest
