Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s Young Artist Program continues with Christopher Eisenberg
Final offering of the season will feature TWO SHOWS by Eisenberg performing soul, Motown and jazz classics, and original compositions from his debut album
SARASOTA, FL – Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) is pleased to continue its second annual Young Artist Program, through which Troupe members are able to showcase their talents with one-night, one-person shows. The third and final artist featured this season is Christopher Eisenberg, who will present “Up Close & Personal.” His show, originally scheduled for Monday, March 30 at 8:00pm, sold out quickly – organizers have added a second show on Monday, April 27, also at 8:00pm. Join this talented teen and WBTT company member as he presents an exciting evening featuring soul, Motown and jazz classics, along with a few of his favorite songs from his debut album, “Christopher XVI.”
Through hard work and perseverance, Christopher has quickly risen to prominence as one of the most sought-after young singers on the West Coast of Florida. From his first Westcoast Black Theatre appearance at age 9, to NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” at age 12, to headlining Sarasota’s New Year’s Eve ‘Pineapple Drop’ event at age 17, this young artist will inspire the audience and remind them that dreams really can come true. He has performed in WBTT shows such as Motown ‘60s Revue, Soul Crooners 2, The Fabulous Five, Cab Calloway, Bubbling Brown Sugar and Black Nativity.
All shows take place at the WBTT Theatre, located at 1646 10th Way in Sarasota. Tickets are $26.50 general admission; VIP tickets, which include reserved seating, are $101.50. Call the box office at (941) 366-1505 or purchase tickets online at westcoastblacktheatre.org.
The organization designed the Young Artist program to support, develop and showcase the talent of young, aspiring African-American artists. The Young Artist Program offers company members the opportunity to develop and present an original production. Artists who are interested must submit a proposal, which is reviewed by the organization’s professional and volunteer leadership. Once a proposal is approved, the performer works with artistic director Nate Jacobs to advise and assist him or her with developing and directing their presentation. All proceeds from the show are given to the presenting artist to be used for further artistic and professional development.
“This is just one way that our organization furthers its mission of developing young artists,” Jacobs said. “We feel strongly about investing in the performers who work with us in order to further their performance and career opportunities. With the sold-out success of all three of our 2015 Young Artists, it is apparent that the community is enjoying and responding to the limitless potential of these rising stars.”
Since its inception, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe has mentored and inspired many African-American youth through participation in the company’s productions. Many of the aspiring professional artists trained in the organization’s performing arts program have gone on to work with regional and national companies. The company has provided a springboard for many national careers including Apphia Campbell and Teresa Stanley, a featured cast member on Broadway in The Color Purple who is presently starring in Rock of Ages. The two youngest company members, teenagers Christopher Eisenberg and Alyssa White, have achieved national acclaim: Christopher made it to the top 48 on “America’s Got Talent” and Alyssa was selected to perform in the Harlem Apollo Theater’s “Best of the Best” show in 2011.
“What’s exciting about the Young Artist Program is that it gives artists who may have only experienced ensemble work to move into the spotlight,” said WBTT executive director Richard M. Parison, Jr. “A one-person show is rigorous for a performer at any level; after successfully executing a Young Artist performance, we expect our artists to be equipped with the tools they need to take their careers to the next level.”
About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe:
The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe of Florida, Inc. is the only professional black theater company on Florida’s West Coast. The mission is to produce plays that promote and celebrate the African-American experience, attract diverse audiences, while using its productions as a vehicle for supporting African-American artists and building the self-esteem of African-American youth. For more information on WBTT, visit the website at westcoastblacktheatre.org or call (941) 366-1505.
