top of page
Search

They Keep Playing That Song: A Night of Story, Theater, and Community in Leimert Park

Updated: 19 hours ago


On Monday, March 23, 2026, audiences in Los Angeles will gather in the historic cultural district of Leimert Park for a powerful evening of storytelling, performance, and community conversation. The event centers around “They Keep Playing That Song,” a live short-film script reading written and directed by acclaimed storyteller Kokayi Ampah.


Presented by The Leimert Park Village Coalition Readers’ Theater in association with The Los Angeles Inner City Cultural Center and Creative Hyphenates LLC, the production continues a longstanding tradition of community-centered theater that reflects the lived experiences of Black and multicultural communities in Los Angeles.


The performance will take place at:


Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center 4305 Degnan Blvd., Suite 101Leimert Park, Los Angeles, CA 90008


Monday, March 23, 2026 7:00 PM




A Story About Aging, Caregiving, and Resilience


“They Keep Playing That Song” explores the emotional realities of aging and caregiving through a deeply human story inspired by the real-life experiences of Ms. Lillian Thompson.


The narrative reflects what happens when life begins to slow down—when the world becomes smaller and everyday independence begins to change. Through humor, honesty, and moments of reflection, the story captures the complexity of aging in a way that is both poignant and relatable.


According to the program itinerary, the character inspiration behind the story had a personality reminiscent of Fred Sanford, speaking openly and unapologetically about life, aging, and the changing world around her.


But the evening goes far beyond theater. The event will also feature a panel of experts addressing the realities facing seniors and caregivers today.


Guests will hear from professionals in the field of aging and dementia care, including specialists connected to UC Irvine’s School of Education and the USC Caregiver Support Center, who will provide insights and resources for families navigating the challenges of elder care.


Representatives from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Genesis Program will also share information about services available to seniors and their families, while members of the Los Angeles Police Department will speak about the growing issue of online scams targeting older adults.


In true community style, the evening will even include food and fellowship.


Kokayi Ampah: Storyteller, Director, Cultural Voice



Writer and director Kokayi Ampah has long been recognized for his work in film, theater, and television, often focusing on stories that highlight social issues and human resilience.


Ampah’s work frequently bridges the gap between entertainment and social awareness, bringing audiences face-to-face with subjects that are often overlooked or misunderstood. With “They Keep Playing That Song,” he turns his attention to aging—a topic that touches every family but rarely receives the thoughtful exploration it deserves.


By presenting the story as a live script reading, Ampah allows audiences to experience the emotional depth of the narrative while highlighting the craft of storytelling itself.


A Talented Cast Brings the Story to Life


The evening features an accomplished ensemble cast including:


Darryl Alan Reed as Wendall

Karen Bankhead-Hitts as Helen

Joyce Guy as Marguerite

J.D. Hall as the Narrator


Each performer brings years of experience in theater, film, and television, helping transform the script reading into a dynamic performance that draws audiences into the emotional heart of the story.



WanJean and The Concrete Rose Project Supporting the Arts


Events like this thrive because of artists and community leaders who believe deeply in the power of culture to strengthen communities.


Among those supporting the evening is WanJean, founder of The Concrete Rose Project, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting artists and preserving cultural narratives through visual art and community engagement.


With a career spanning more than 40 years, WanJean has become known for her groundbreaking sculpture-on-canvas portraiture and monumental works honoring cultural and historical figures. Through The Concrete Rose Project, she continues to support creative spaces, artistic collaborations, and programs that connect visual art, theater, and community storytelling.


Her involvement with productions such as “Tracking the Tiger” and “They Keep Playing That Song” reflects the organization’s broader commitment to sustaining the performing arts ecosystem that has long thrived in neighborhoods like Leimert Park.


The Concrete Rose Project believes that art—whether visual, theatrical, or literary—is essential to preserving the stories that shape communities and inspire future generations.



The Legacy of Leimert Park’s Cultural Scene


The choice of venue for the event is no coincidence.


Leimert Park has long served as one of Los Angeles’ most important cultural districts for Black art, theater, music, and community dialogue. The Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center, named after the legendary jazz vocalist, continues that tradition by hosting performances that celebrate culture, creativity, and connection.


Events like “They Keep Playing That Song” carry forward the legacy of institutions such as the Inner City Cultural Center, which helped launch countless artists and creatives over the decades.



Join the Community for an Evening of Art and Conversation


For anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to spark conversation and bring people together, this event offers something special.


Through theater, expert discussion, and shared community space, “They Keep Playing That Song” invites audiences to reflect on aging, caregiving, and resilience—topics that resonate deeply across generations.


Whether you come for the theater, the conversation, or the sense of community that defines Leimert Park, this promises to be an evening where art, life, and culture intersect.


And as the title suggests, sometimes the stories that matter most are the ones that keep playing—long after the curtain falls.


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page