About the Show

A new work exploring a distinctly Black American storytelling genre.

This new show explores distinctive genre of Black American storytelling called Toasts, through a 1976 album of the same name recorded and edited by folklorist Bruce Jackson.

Toasts are snappy, virtuosic poems that tell fantastical stories about legendary street heroes.

Featuring performances by Eric Berryman and drummer Jharis Yokley. Directed by Kate Valk.

Critic Reviews (2)

" 'Get Your Ass in the Water and Swim Like Me' is not as stirring as the previous work."
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In this follow-up to "The B-Side: 'Negro Folklore from Texas State Prisons,' a Record Album Interpretation," Eric Berryman dives deep into a collection of folktales known as toasts, made for heroes and antiheroes in the Black storytelling canon.
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Trailer

Creative team