Young John Lewis
Produced in Partnership with Mosaic Theater
Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest
Book & Lyrics by Psalmayene 24
Music by Kokayi
Directed by Reginald L. Douglas
Washington Performing Arts dates: April 10-12, 2026
Atlas Performing Arts Center
It’s time to make some Good Trouble! In this new musical, Mosaic’s Playwright-in-Residence Psalmayene 24 honors the legendary “Conscience of Congress”: the late Congressman John Lewis. Focusing on the Congressman’s formative years of ages 18-28, Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest reveals the humanity and heart of this mighty historic figure. The musical explores how the murder of Emmett Till motivated Lewis to pursue a life of service, including leading the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, fighting for Civil Rights with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and working for nearly two decades in Congress.
A theatrical event not to be missed, Young John Lewis is both a galvanizing call to action and an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference, no matter our age.
As part of our Mars Arts D.C. and Mosaic Theater partnership, Washington Performing Arts audiences have special access to seats for all performances April 10-12, 2026. Use code WPA50 for 50% off ticket prices on these performances only.
Washington Performing Arts Access Dates:
Friday April 10, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday April 11, 2026, 3:00 p.m.
Saturday April 11, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday April 12, 2026, 3:00 p.m.
Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest was commissioned and originally produced by Theatrical Outfit.
Our Partners
Washington Performing Arts’s 60th anniversary year is generously sponsored by Dr. Gary Mather † and Ms. Christina Co Mather.
Special thanks to the following lead supporters of Washington Performing Arts’s mission-driven work: Jacqueline Badger Mars and Mars, Incorporated; D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities; the National Capital Arts and Cultural Affairs Program and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts; The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation; and Events DC.
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