Generation Rise

About the Show

They grew up in a global pandemic. They came into their own amidst renewed calls for racial justice. In their own words, Black, Latinx and Asian American teens bridge identities, cultures and lived experiences to share who they are and what they want in the world. From first MetroCards and going out, to canceled proms and coming out, young New Yorkers voice experiences of loss and isolation as well as new-found ways to connect, create and claim space during a year of crisis and transformation. Fresh, insightful and optimistic against all odds, they are Generation Rise.

NYC teens share stories of transformation and resilience in the wake of 2020.

Generation Rise was created by Ping Chong and Company in association with New 42/New Victory Theater developed in collaboration with Urban Word NYC

Did You Know?

1. Creators Ping Chong and Company are no strangers to amplifying the voices of young New Yorkers. Undesirable Elements: Generation NYZ, starring NYC teenagers telling their true-life stories, appeared as part of the New Victory 2017-18 season.
2. Generation Rise explores social responsibility in relation to the murder of George Floyd and the fight for racial justice, as well as the pandemic’s effect on daily life and key rites of passage for teens.
3. Atmospheric lighting and sound are used in this production to convey the sense of isolation and distance the cast members felt while under lockdown due to Covid-19.

About the Company

Ping Chong and Company uses theater to bring communities together. Through a wide variety of art forms, including puppetry, dance, oral history and documentary theater, they explore the idea of social responsibility through artistic innovation. The company broadens their audience’s understanding of identity by creating shows written by and starring people whose stories often go unheard.

Creative Team