Knock Me a Kiss by M Ensemble

Passion collides with duty in this fictionalized account of a pivotal moment during the Harlem Renaissance. Knock Me a Kiss by Charles Smith, presented by M Ensemble, runs April 10-27 on select dates at the Sandrell Rivers Theater.

The play centers on Yolande Du Bois, daughter of influential scholar W.E.B. Du Bois, as she navigates the challenging choice between her attraction to spirited musician Jimmy Lunceford and the socially advantageous marriage to renowned poet Countee Cullen. Set against the cultural flowering of 1928 Harlem, the story examines how a highly publicized marriage becomes a lens through which to view the tension between personal desires and societal expectations.

This production features a talented ensemble cast including Charles Reuben, Jean Hyppolite, Lela Elam, Dina Lewis, Carmeron Holder and Tyquisha A Braynen. The performance continues M Ensemble's distinguished legacy as Florida's oldest Black professional theater company, furthering their commitment to bringing African American stories and experiences to the stage.

In addition to the opening night on Thursday, April 10, performances take place over three weekends: April 11-13, April 18-20, and April 25-27.