The Day You Begin

This world premiere commissioned musical is based on one of Kennedy Center Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s most popular picture books, a #1 New York Timesbestseller illustrated by Rafael López and featured in its own episode in the Netflix original show Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices. Adapted by Woodson with music by Toshi Reagon and direction by Charlotte Brathwaite, The Day You Begin is a poignant and heartening musical about finding courage to connect, even when you feel afraid.

This Is The Rope

This world premiere NSO Family Concert will feature Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson reading This Is the Rope onstage with a new score by Quinn Mason played by the National Symphony Orchestra, featuring projected illustrations by Coretta Scott King Award-winner James Ransome.

Each Kindness

Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson will narrate her unforgettable book Each Kindness onstage for its world premiere as a small ensemble performance with musicians and other special guests. Featuring projections of E.B. Lewis’s striking artwork, this story’s powerful anti-bullying message will resonate with audiences long after they've left the theater.