The Musical Dramatic Arts Foundation is proud to present a concert version of the groundbreaking musical I Dream in partnership with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). This event will take place on November 1, 2024, at the Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) in Troy, NY, and aims to reach both the broader community and RPI students, faculty, and staff.

I Dream tells the story of the final 36 hours of Martin Luther King Jr.'s life as seen through the eyes of his closest friend, Ralph Abernathy, as the Civil Rights leaders grappled with justice, identity, and the burden of leadership.

Written and composed by Douglas Tappin, in collaboration with award-winning playwright Jonathan Payne, I Dream explores the Civil Rights Movement through powerful music, captivating storytelling, and vivid characters. This concert version is directed by Broadway’s Quentin Earl Darrington (Ragtime, Cats, Once on This Island, MJ The Musical), and features a stellar Broadway cast (including Tony and Grammy nominees).

About the Concert Event 

I Dream takes place within Ralph Abernathy's consciousness as he nears the end of his life. Accompanied by Bria, a young modern-day activist, Abernathy confronts the struggles of his past and his relationship with Dr. King. Through Bria, the audience is invited to reflect on their own convictions as they experience the powerful and haunting journey through music and dialogue.

I Dream has been presented on Atlanta’s Alliance Stage, in-concert at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and has a track record of sold-out shows and meaningful community impact. Through its educational and engagement initiatives, the show continues to reach new and diverse audiences. In 2023, the Musical Dramatic Arts Foundation partnered with the Apollo Theater in New York City for focused book, music, and movement development of I Dream.

Event Details 

What: I Dream in Concert Event 
When: November 1, 2024, at 7 p.m.
Where: EMPAC Concert Hall, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 
Tickets:  https://tickets.empac.rpi.edu/TheatreManager/1/online?performance=525 

This concert event marks a significant moment in the development of I Dream, offering audiences a preview of what's to come in future productions. The Musical Dramatic Arts Foundation is proud to premiere its community engagement model alongside this new performance, empowering young artists and community members to be part of the creative process. 

About The Mission of the Musical Dramatic Arts Foundation 

The Musical Dramatic Arts Foundation, Inc. (MDAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting the development and production impact of musical dramas with inspirational themes, such as hope, courage, resilience, justice, and the transformational power of love.

MDAF believes in producing these works within an accessible, growth-oriented, community context that inspires individuals to overcome antagonism in their own lives, and empowers them to impact, enrich, and revitalize their communities.

MDAF is exploring pathways for works outside of the existing capital-driven or classical theater models by…

• Establishing production and philanthropy partnerships and building an ecosystem of community, arts, and educational leaders.
• Adapting productions to create access for all community members.
• Developing and co-producing inspirational and artistically excellent new works.
• Creating growth-oriented community outreach, education, and leadership initiatives.

For more information about I Dream or to learn more about MDAF’s community-driven approach to theater, visit www.musicaldramaticarts.org.