PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- April 9, 2003 -- The University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus and the Providence Black Repertory Company will present Seeds of Hope: Planting Community –Growing Self, a youth performance of original writing based on a traditional African-American folktale. The performances are scheduled April 25 at 7 p.m. at the Mill City Gallery, 532 Kinsley Ave., in Providence and May 10 at 11 a.m. at the Providence Black Repertory Company, 276 Westminster St. For other dates and locations call 351-0353, ext.106 or 277-5206.

Seeds of Hope is a youth writing and performance program that brings together middle school students from greater Providence. The group learns inspiring, classic poetry from many cultures and also writes poetry, both individually and as a group.

Seeds of Hope Planting Community: Growing Self is a 40-minute program, a collage built around a traditional African-American folktale, an allegory about birds who choose to fly and birds who will not fly. The production affirms self expression, being an individual and being different while being a responsible member of a community and holding on to cultural heritage and traditions. It speaks of hope and developing values. It is also a story of enslavement, the struggle for freedom, and the great price of obtaining and maintaining freedom for all peoples.

Seeds of Hope is co-led by Julia Murphy, education director for Providence Black Repertory Company, with Rhode Island native poet Quintin Prout, and Irina Abramov who is working with Ameri-Corps. The performers include Marcel Young-Scaggs of East Providence, Matthew Shumate of East Providence, Michaela Wood of Providence, Charlene Cooper of Providence, Stephani and Riane Lewis of East Providence, Rebecca Valentine of Pawtucket, and Siobhan Reddy-Best of Providence.