Birmingham Children’s Theatre Presents Don’t Tell Me I Can’t Fly

This February, BCT is proud to present “Don’t Tell Me I Can’t Fly,” a story inspired by the life of and works of collage artist Della Wells.

Nine-year-old Tonia Bridge is growing up in a working-class, AfricanAmerican home in Milwaukee in 1964. Her artistic soul is at odds with her parents' fears and pragmatism – she tries to please her mother by wearing safe, but drab, clothing and she tries to please her father by making a beautiful science project she thinks will make him proud. But in the end, Tonia finds her way, the only way possible: by allowing her parents to see her true self with all her flaws, beauty and possibilities.

“We chose this show for our 75th Anniversary season because while we never want to shy away from the struggles of the Civil Rights movement in Black History, we think it is equally important to present stories centered on young Black characters that showcase the imagination and joy of living fully in your own skin, and discovering the unique gifts that will uplift children towards personal achievement,” says BCT Executive Artistic Director Ashley Woods.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre production of DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY is written by Y. York and directed by Aija Penix. Performances for the public are February 11 and 25 on Saturdays at 11am and is recommended for ages 6 and older. The approximate run time is 70 minutes and tickets are $10 for Children (free for children under 2) and $22 for Adults.

Saturday, February 11 is a Pay-What-You-Can performance in connection with BCT’s Lift Every Voice Black History Month Festival. The event will be held at the BJCC in downtown Birmingham. BCT is a sensory friendly facility and partners with Kulture City to provide sensory safe spaces on and off stage. Tickets and information can be found at https://www.bct123.org/fly