Adapted from Christopher Paul Curtis’ Newbury Medal-winning novel, the drama features music by jazz artist and composer Terence Blanchard. Clarke Peters directs.

The cast will comprise Justin Weaks (The Kennedy Center’s Darius & Twig) as Bud, Tony nominee Frankie Faison (Fences), Tony nominee Charlayne Woodard (Ain’t Misbehavin’), Sesame Street’s Roscoe Orman, Helen Hayes Award winner KenYatta Rogers, John Clarence Stewart (Netflix’s Luke Cage), Ray Shell (original London production of Five Guys Named Moe), and Helen Hayes Award winner Michael Willis.

"Set in Flint, Michigan in 1936," Bud, Not Buddy, according to press notes, "tells the story of Bud, a ten-year old who is sure about two things: he wants to find his father and he is not called Buddy. With only one clue, a flyer advertising Herman E. Calloway and his band, and his trusty suitcase in tow, Bud sets off on an epic journey of discovery, set to the soulful sounds of jazz."

The new play incorporates a large onstage jazz ensemble to perform Blanchard’s score and is described as "part radio play, part jazz concert, and all heart."

The creative team also includes scenic designer Micha Kachman, lighting designer Dan Covey, costume designer Jen Gillette, sound designer Patrick Calhoun, music director/conductor Victor Simonson, and dramaturg Ken Cerniglia.

The production is recommended for ages nine and older.

For ticket information visit kennedy-center.org.