Staff WriterThe Jamaica Organization of New Jersey (JON-J) will host critically acclaimed stage play “Jamaica Farewell”, which chronicles an immigrant’s journey from the tumultuous 1980s Caribbean to the “promised land” of America.
Written and performed by Jamaican-born Debra Ehrhardt, the riveting one-woman play will be held at 7 pm, march 31, 2012, at Eternal Life Christian Center, 322 Franklin Blvd, Somerset, N.J.
“Jamaica Farewell” has earned a multitude of fans, including Rita Wilson-Hanks, who optioned the stage and screen rights after its 2010-2011 run in Los Angeles. During the Los Angeles production, Ehrhardt was directed by Joel Zwick, Director of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.”
The play has also been recognized by the theater community in Jamaica. In spring 2011, the prestigious Actor’s Boy Awards in Kingston, Jamaica, nominated Ehrhardt for Best Actress and the play Best Drama.
Set against the political upheavals of Jamaica during the 1980s reign of former Prime Minister Michael Manley, “Jamaica Farewell” captures the vibrant culture, socioeconomic climate and history of the playwright’s childhood.
Jamaica’s ambassador to the US, Audrey Marks, called the play riveting, telling Ehrhardt in a note that she thoroughly enjoyed her performance. “You have found a way to present this fact-based story in an inimitable Jamaican style that demonstrates the versatility and determination of the Jamaican spirit and our ability to triumph in the face of adversity.”
jamarch
