Taking Over

Performer and playwright Danny Hoch has an uncanny talent for portraying the hopes, dreams, and disappointments of other people—regardless of race, age, or gender—in works that speak volumes about the street-level politics of our times. His fully defined characters defy stereotypes, challenge assumptions, and raise awareness through the range of Hoch's gifts—including his sharp wit, rap rhythms, and high-energy delivery. Local audiences who remember the Walker Art Center's presentations of Hoch's "Jails, Hospitals & Hip-Hop" and Hip-Hop Theater All Stars now have an opportunity to see the artist try out something new with "Taking Over," a series of monologues that consider urban gentrification as a form of neo-feudalism for the 21st century. With the advent of slick condo projects (complete with coffee shops and hotel-style amenities) throughout our own city, it's easy to intuit Hoch's point of view, but don't expect any easy answers from this leading voice of the hip-hop generation. His skill lies in the framing of experience from the perspective of those who are most directly affected by change. For tickets call 612.375.7600.
Thursdays-Saturdays, 7:30 p.m. Starts: Dec. 6. Continues through Dec. 8, 2007