The American premiere of Di Prodigal Pickney, the latest stage comedy from Jamaican theatre legend Oliver Samuels, will double as a fundraiser for hurricane relief efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
The production — written, directed by, and starring Samuels — will tour the New York Tri-State area across two weekends, beginning Friday, November 14, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Performances will follow in Brooklyn, New York (November 15); East Orange, New Jersey (November 16); Jamaica, Queens (November 21); Hartford, Connecticut (November 22); and the Bronx (November 23). The final show will take place on December 7 in Beltsville, Maryland.
Part proceeds from the tour will benefit the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey, which is leading hurricane relief fundraising efforts, and the Westwood High School Alumnae Chapter in New York. The decision came after Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, caused widespread destruction in western Jamaica on October 28.
“We had been eagerly anticipating Oliver’s return to the Tri-State area for months,” said Patrick M. Reid, the New Jersey-based producer of the U.S. tour. “But once we saw the havoc wreaked by Hurricane Melissa, we knew we had to act. We’re proud to channel part of the proceeds toward helping those affected.”
Reid noted that Westwood High School’s campus was particularly hard hit. The school’s nearly completed medical clinic was severely damaged, alongside its auditorium, classrooms, and dormitories. “They were already slated to receive proceeds from the production, but now their need is even greater,” he added. “We’re hoping audiences will turn out in large numbers to support both causes — and enjoy a truly funny, family-friendly play.”
Set in Jamaica, Di Prodigal Pickney reimagines the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son with a comedic twist. Starring Samuels alongside actress Karen Harriott and rising star Tesfa Edwards, the play follows a father, mother, and their wayward son as family tensions unfold with humor and heart.
Following successful runs in Canada, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, and the United Kingdom, the production makes its U.S. debut with backing from Sky’s The Limit Foundation and Jammins Events in collaboration with STL Promotions.
Samuels, affectionately known as Jamaica’s “King of Comedy,” boasts a career spanning more than 50 years. His credits include over 60 stage productions, films such as The Mighty Quinn and Great Moments in Aviation, and numerous awards — including Jamaica’s Order of Distinction (Commander Class).
Tickets and information are available at STLVentures.org, by calling 973-801-1923, or through the Westwood Alumnae ticket line at 929-242-9156.
