Event Description
SANKOFA is an Akan term from Ghana that means “to go back and get it.” When a magical Sankofa statue breaks, five teens suddenly find themselves within key moments of Black history starting in Africa with Mansa Musa and ending in the 1970’s Bronx with the birth of Hip Hop.
Together, they must work to find missing pieces of the broken statue and return to 2026. Along the way, they witness and become a part of history, learning its value and connection to their own lives. Featuring a dynamic team of Cleveland-based theater professionals, this swift-moving, time-traveling tale comes to life through live music, dance, and a whole lot of history.
This piece is written by local, award-winning playwright Lisa Lanford and developed by Playhouse Square Education in collaboration with Karamu House and The Cleveland Public Library.
Curriculum connections: English/Language Arts, Drama, Music, Social Studies
Recommended for grades: 5 & up
Running time: 60 minutes
The 10:00 a.m. performance on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 will have sign language interpreters. Guests who need the assistance of the interpreter: please note this on your order form so we can seat you appropriately.
INCLUDED WITH REGISTRATION:
• Teacher Resource Guide
• Pre-Show Classroom Connections Workshop Video
• Post-Show Classroom Connections Workshop Video
To request a field trip, please complete the online 2025-2026 School Field Trip Order Form by clicking the “Register” button on this page. Registrations and order by phone are not accepted, but we are happy to answer your questions. For assistance in choosing the best shows for your class, please contact the Education Hotline at 216-348-7909 or schoolprograms@playhousesquare.org.
Pricing:
Groups of 10 or more, $7 per ticket with one complimentary ticket for every 20 purchased
Groups of 9 or fewer, $12 per ticket
Cleveland Metropolitan School District teachers: Thanks to a generous donation from the KeyBank Foundation, a limited number of free and reduced-cost tickets are available for CMSD schools and approved partnered schools. Contact us at 216-348-7909 or schoolprograms@playhousesquare.org for remaining availability and ordering procedures.
This Student Matinee Performance is part of the Playhouse Square Education Department Social Justice Series.