If you missed it, you truly missed it.  The world premier of “In Pursuit of Me: The Story of Christylez Bacon” was featured at the Intersections Festival at the Atlas Performing Arts Theater.  This musical autobiography tells the story of GRAMMY nominated, DC Native Christylez Bacon.   Christylez’ versatility was showcased throughout the play from writing the music and lyrics to beat boxing to playing spoons and a guitar.  We get a glimpse of his journey from Southeast DC to the top stages in town not usually associated with Hip-Hop.  He became the first Hip-Hop artist to receive an Artist-in Residence position at the Mansion at Strathmore, and the first Hip-Hop artist to be featured at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.  He also has performed at he National Cathedral and the John F. Kennedy Center.

The story opens on a typical day at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts where Christylez’ creativity and talent is nurtured and encouraged.  However, when he steps outside the school, and heads home, there are several challenges that he endures.  From his mother’s disability to the mean streets to a failed attempt at college to being kicked out his home, Christylez navigates each situation with a burning desire to succeed as an artist.  The story is humorous, and to my surprise, personal and emotional at times.  His relationship with his family is left unresolved within the play.    Throughout the show,  I found myself rooting for Christylez, and I will continue to do so afterwards.

Check out Christylez’s website here.