Hold Up

Created by Krystal Ramseur and Derek Hayes, Hold Up is a Black performer’s literature circle with a twist. A performer reads an important chapter from standard middle and high school literature classes. At any point during the reading, anyone can say “hold up” and start a discussion with their thoughts on the text, questions, or even hot takes. Full of laughter and silliness, the panel show also delves into poignant academic assessments of the text while weaving in modern context and individual perspectives. The final part of the show dedicated to asking big picture discussion questions.

Hold Up features a rotating cast each week.

Cast: Ti Coleman, Derek Hayes, Lauren Jordan, Namakau Lewanika, Krystal Ramseur, Alex Waddell, Slli’m Williams, Sadé Young.

This cast features Black performers from Philadelphia, Baltimore, and DC.

This week’s selection: To Kill a Mockingbird

Not a traditional improv show, Hold Up  showcases Black performers dissecting literature in a way that wasn’t always comfortable in grade school. The show also reflects the reality that these virtual discussions over Zoom are how today’s students will be digesting this material in the present time.

Tune in on Facebook Live

(no Facebook account needed to watch)