Philadelphia’s own Khalil Munir, a graduate of Adelphi University with a BFA in Theater, shares his passion for the arts as a dedicated theater and movement teacher at Delaware Valley Friends School. Outside of the classroom, he’s preparing to take the stage this October with his powerful one-man show, ‘1 Pound 4 Ounces,’ a world premiere that blends storytelling, improvisational tap, and original music by Rajeer Alford. Directed by Barrymore Award winner Amina Robinson, the performance showcases Munir’s own childhood and personal journey, exploring themes of resilience, hope, and identity.
‘1 Pound 4 Ounces’ also kicks-off the first collaborative season between Azuka Theatre and Simpatico Theatre. The season, under Artistic Director Allison Heishman, features two world premieres by Philadelphia playwrights, continued commitment to new play development, and citywide community engagement that emphasizes equity, accessibility, and innovation.
Munir shares with Metro more about his show, working with Alford and Robinson, and the messages he hopes audiences will carry with them long after the performance.
The title of the show, ‘1 Pound 4 Ounces,’ was also your birth weight. In what ways does that make it a fitting title for your piece?
That number is where my story begins. I came into the world fragile, fighting to survive, and that fight shaped everything that followed. Calling the show ‘1 Pound 4 Ounces’ reminds me — and the audience — that even the smallest beginnings can hold the weight of an incredible story. It’s not just my birth weight; it’s a symbol of resilience.
Improvisational tap dancing and movement are a big part of the show. How do they help drive the story on stage?
Movement is a language I turn to when words aren’t enough. Tap, in particular, is rhythmic, raw, and honest. It lets the audience feel my heartbeat in real time. Improvisation keeps the performance alive and unpredictable, just like the challenges I’ve faced in life. The dance isn’t decoration, it’s storytelling.
Can you share a bit about Rajeer Alford’s music and collaborating with him for this show?
Rajeer’s music has a pulse that matches the emotional core of my story. He blends rhythms and textures that carry both joy and struggle. The score feels like it’s in conversation with me as I perform — sometimes lifting me, sometimes grounding me. His sound world makes the show feel whole.
Director Amina Robinson is someone you’ve known since childhood. How did working with her shape the development of ‘1 Pound 4 Ounces,’ and when did you feel the show was ready for an audience?
Amina has always seen me fully — as an artist and as a person. I know she will challenge me to dig deeper, to be vulnerable in ways that scare me, and we trust that honesty will resonate. We will know the show is ready when it stops feeling like a personal story I am telling at people and starts feeling like an invitation into a shared experience.
When did you decide to pursue a BFA in theater and was there a moment or experience that inspired you to build a career in the arts?
I decided to pursue my BFA when I realized that storytelling wasn’t just something I loved, it was something I needed to do. Growing up, I didn’t always see stories that reflected my reality. I wanted to change that. Theater gave me a voice, and I wanted to spend my life amplifying voices — my own and others.’
‘1 Pound 4 Ounces’ opens the new collaborative season between Azuka Theatre and Simpatico Theatre. How does it feel to have your stow included in this partnership?
It’s powerful. Both companies have a history of lifting up stories that challenge and connect communities. To have ‘1 Pound 4 Ounces’ open this season feels like a statement—that we’re starting with honesty, with heart, and with a story about survival, possibility and triumph.
Your children’s book, ‘The Crown Is Yours,’ and this show both explore resilience and self-worth. What do you hope audiences and young readers take away from your work?
I hope they walk away believing in their own power. Whether you’re a kid picking up ‘The Crown Is Yours’ or someone sitting in the theater watching my story unfold, I want you to know that your beginning doesn’t define your ending. You are worthy, you are resilient, and you carry a crown inside you that no one can take away.
‘1 Pound 4 Ounces’ runs from Oct. 22 through Nov. 2 at the Louis Bluver Theatre at The Drake. All shows this season will continue to use Pay What You Decide ticketing. Guests can make a no-cost reservation and pay what they decide after the show.
