“Unbossed & Unbowed” is an immersive one-woman show that vividly brings the story of Shirley Chisholm to the stage. Written and performed by Ingrid Griffith, the production chronicles Chisholm’s journey as the first African-American woman to run for U.S. President, capturing the spirit of her trailblazing career. Taking its title from Chisholm’s 1972 presidential campaign slogan and memoir, the show has garnered widespread acclaim, winning the 2023 Suzi Bass Award for Outstanding Production about Social Justice. Presented as part of BRIC’s performing arts programming, this dynamic performance is held at BRIC House in Downtown Brooklyn. For over four decades, BRIC has been at the heart of Brooklyn’s cultural scene, nurturing artists, creators, and media makers who help shape the borough’s rich creative landscape.
Ingrid Griffith, a rising star in theater and a protégé of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, has quickly established herself as a formidable talent. As both a writer and actor, Griffith’s performances have graced the off-Broadway stage in acclaimed productions such as The Basset Table, Doubt, The Vagina Monologues, Twilight: Los Angeles, Ruined, and Hedda Gabler. Her solo show, “Demerara Gold”, garnered international recognition, captivating audiences worldwide with its deeply personal and vivid storytelling. Griffith’s artistic achievements have earned her prestigious accolades, including the 2023 Guyana Cultural Association Award and the Danny Glover Power of Dream Award, solidifying her place as a leading voice in contemporary theater.
Experience the inspiring journey of Brooklyn-born Shirley Chisholm, often hailed as the “Black Joan of Arc,” as she defies the political establishment in her fight for justice during the tumultuous 1960s and ’70s. The play follows Chisholm’s life from her early childhood in Barbados to her family’s immigrant struggles in America, ultimately leading to her historic run for the U.S. presidency. Through her courage and determination, Chisholm’s groundbreaking campaign forever changed the landscape of American politics.
As Kamala Harris makes history as the first woman, and first person of South Asian descent to serve as Vice President of the United States, “Unbossed & Unbowed” shines a light on the trailblazing path that Shirley Chisholm paved decades earlier. Chisholm’s groundbreaking 1972 presidential campaign broke barriers and laid the foundation for future generations of women in politics. Her fearless run for the presidency opened doors that have allowed leaders like Harris to continue pushing boundaries, inspiring a new era of political possibilities for women of color.
Reserve tickets for the Youth Show HERE, purchase tickets for the Saturday Matinee at 2 PM HERE, and for Saturday’s 7 PM evening performance HERE .
BRIC House, 647 Fulton Street Brooklyn, New York
