SELF PORTRAIT: UNframed

SELF PORTRAIT unFRAMED is a stage play written and performed by Iyaba Ibo Mandingo. This production is different. It's emotional, engaging, and invites the audience into the conversation.

Meet Iyaba Ibo Mandingo – painter, poet, husband, father, son, and undocumented immigrant from Antigua. At the age of eleven, Iyaba is plucked from the tropical comfort of his boyhood and taken to life in America where he must navigate his way to manhood without the guidance of a father.

Using canvas, paint, poetry, prose, and song, Iyaba tells us a story of his transformation from “Mommy Me No Wanna Go Merrica” – a prophetic piece that hints at the many trials he will face in a new land – to his powerful political poetry that would lead to his arrest and attempted deportation in post 9/11 America.

Throughout the play Iyaba shares his rage, determination, and hope; he struggles to redefine his humanity, rediscover his smile, and truly accept himself for the first time, all while he paints his self-portrait.

The production returns to Springfield on Saturday, February 19, 2022 (7:00pm).

The show includes a Q&A with the writer/actor.

Press

“Over the course of these ninety riveting minutes of sheer lightning, the gentleman manages to sing, to dance and to act in a variety of ages and accents, and also tell his acclaimed spoken-word poetry and to captivate from his very first nanosecond on stage.” ~ Nite Life Exchange

“One of the most powerful, sometimes funny, often angry but ultimately life-affirming shows I’ve ever seen! GO EXPERIENCE IT!!!” ~ Frank Lowell, WQTB

“If you are looking to see something that will have you talking for days, maybe weeks, go see unFRAMED.” ~ The Hudson Valley Parent

“The play’s ability to transcend race and class and give refreshing life to universal themes has made unFRAMED resonate so well across demographic boundaries.” ~ Chronogram

2011 Excellence in Theatre Award from the DC Black Theatre Festival