51st (dream) STATE

Written & Conceived by Sekou Sundiata | Directed by Christopher McElroen

Presented: 2005 – 2008 | World Premiere

51st (dream) State is nationally acclaimed poet Sekou Sundiata’s contemplation of America’s national identity, power in the world and guiding mythologies. The work, which Sundiata imagined as his poetic and personal “State of the American Soul Address,” explores how America defines itself in a new era characterized by unprecedented global influence and power. It is an adventure, a quest to find a vision of what it means to be both a citizen and an individual in a deeply complex, hyperkinetic society. 51st (dream) State features a cycle of songs accompanied by a live band, poems and monologues, supported by still and moving projected images.

Musical Direction: Graham Haynes, Eddie Allen, Choreographer: David Thomson, Sound Design: Lucas Indelicato, Visual Projections: Sage Marie Carter, Vocal Arranger: Richard Harper, Set Design: Troy Hourie, Lighting Design: Rick Murray

Cast: LaTanya Hall, Ronnell Bey, Samita Sinha & Bora Yoon

Musicians: Graham Haynes, Bora Yoon, Adam Klipple, Bill White, Calvin Jones, Chris Eddleton & Eddie Allen

Presenters: Walker Art Center, Stanford Lively Arts, Melbourne International Arts Festival, Brooklyn Academy of Music NEXTwave Festival, Aaron Davis Hall, HarlemStage, The Gatehouse, Miami Dade College, University of Michigan Musical Society, University of MD, Bucknell University, Zeiterion Theatre, Songs of the Spirit.

Produced by MAPP International Productions


  • “The 51st dream state is an entertaining and thought-provoking interrogation of contemporary America.” - The Age (Australia)

  • The 51st (Dream) State is an introspective look into America's national identity and its guiding mythologies … An extraordinary, moving and entertaining show that i would recommend for everyone to see.” – Pretend Paper (Australia)

  • New York Times Article