The Day With Trae: Ajani Dickerson on the Teen Summer Musical
In a recent episode of The Day With Trae, host Trae Holiday had the pleasure of welcoming a very special guest to the set—her son, Ajani Dickerson. Together, they discussed Ajani's experience as a cast member in this year's Teen Summer Musical at Benaroya Hall. Now in his second year with the production, Ajani's enthusiasm shone through as he shared his insights into the friendships, mentorship, and dedication that fuel the show's journey to the stage.
"It's been a good summer," Ajani said, reflecting on his journey.
With the production currently playing at Benaroya Hall, the excitement in Ajani's voice is unmistakable. Having eagerly anticipated this moment, Ajani is presently showcasing the hard work he and his fellow cast members have spent countless hours and dedication to creating. Accompanying this year's production is a significant increase in the number of "minis" – younger cast members like Ajani – from just a handful last year to over 20 this time around. The camaraderie among the cast is evident, with Ajani highlighting the strong bonds he's formed with his fellow actors, minis and teens alike, and mentors.
"Of the mentors I've been able to gain is Coach T, Mr. Isaiah, and Ms. Michelle," Ajani said. "He comes every day 110%. He's very productive, and Mr. Isaiah is still very productive. Gives 110% single day. At the end of every single rehearsal, he tells us what we need to do to get ready for this show."
As the Teen Summer Musical transitions from the more intimate setting of Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute to Benaroya Hall, the anticipation for Ajani has built up.
"The most thing that I'm excited about getting on the Benaroya Hall stage is because I went to Langston, and every single day, I watch them do dances, act, and sing, and I was just looking at them and then looking at the audience and looking at the team," Ajani said. "This show is big for Langston."
With opening night having taken place Friday, August 24, there is still time to see the show at Benroya Hall.
"People, people of color and people of culture, you guys need to see this show; not only Black people, but other cultures and other people of color can come to see this show because we have some good songs, good dances and good actresses and actors who are putting [on] this show, putting hard work out all these weeks to nine to five, Monday, Friday," Ajani said. "We are putting in work, hard work, for you all to come to this show."
The Teen Summer Musical is currently showcasing at Benaroya Hall throughout the weekend. Tickets are still available here. Don't miss out on this celebration of youth talent and community spirit!
Tune in with Trae every weekday at 11 a.m. on all Converge Media platforms and The Day With Trae YouTube Channel.
