The Fruits of Our Labor at Arena Stage (Washington, DC)

As America marks 250 years, Step Afrika! premieres The Fruits of Our Labor—a work that examines what it means to build, to belong, and to believe in a nation still in the making.

Created in collaboration and conversation with Jakari Sherman, Conrad R. Kelly II, and Vusi Mdoyi, The Fruits of Our Labor pushes the boundaries of percussive dance while drawing from traditions that continue to shape Black expression and cultural identity across the diaspora.  Be the first to see this powerful new production exploring rhythm, resilience, and the unfinished story of the American experience.

Runtime is approximately 75–80 minutes with no intermission.

Special Performances

• Southwest Night Performances: September 11-16, patrons who reside or work in Southwest DC can buy $29 tickets using code SWNIGHTS.
• College Night: Saturday, September 12 at 8 PM. Students can grab $35 tickets using code COLLEGE.
• Pride Night: Wednesday, September 16 at 7:30 PM. Celebrate with $40 tickets using code PRIDE. Come for the show, stay for the vibes!
• Young Professionals Night: Saturday, September 19 at 8 PM. Network over happy hour at 6:30 PM, catch the show, and connect with fellow theater lovers! Use code YOUNGPRO (ages 18–45) for $35 tickets, plus fees.
• HBCU Night: Wednesday, September 23 at 7:30 PM. Rep your colors! Calling all HBCU students, staff, and alumni to come out to the show that will have everyone talking. Use code HBCU for $40 tickets.

The Fruits of Our Labor is made possible through the extraordinary generosity and visionary support of
Tiffeny Sanchez and Reg Brown, Lead Sponsors of the production and national tour.

 Lead Commissioning Support is provided by ASU Gammage and the Charleston Gaillard Center. Additional Commissioning Support is provided by The Modlin Center for the Arts at the University of Richmond; Performing Arts Houston; and the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts.