This month, InterAct Theatre Company and Theatre in the X will showcase the world premiere of ‘ON MY DEEN’, written by Antu Yacob and directed by Amina Robinson in collaboration with Philadelphia’s Black Muslim community.
The play starts in West Philadelphia in 1962. Faye Ann, a young woman with a sharp mind and a stubborn heart, makes a life-changing decision: she joins the Nation of Islam. For her, it’s a bold step toward self-discovery and purpose. But for Michael, her best friend and quiet admirer, it’s yet another fork in the road that seems to keep them from walking it together.
Played by Satchel Williams and Travoye Joyner, Faye Ann and Michael share a deep bond—but also a deep divide. They clash over politics, religion, and even what makes a good pie. Over the years, as the world around them shifts—civil rights, cultural and personal reckonings—they drift apart and circle back again, pulled by history and heartache in equal measure.
Their story unfolds across decades, raising the question: can two people searching for peace in their own lives ever truly find it in each other?
“Now more than ever, we need a moral and ethical center to ground us in these immense times of uncertainty,” says director Amina Robinson. “For some, that center is found in their families. For others, they find grounding in their community, some in their faith, and oftentimes in all three. ‘ON MY DEEN’, a signification of our commitment to a holy walk with Allah, explores the intricate and sometimes delicate balance we strike in our relationship with God, in pursuit of meaning on Earth. Are we living righteous and or honorable lives? Do we even care to do so? Does any of it even matter?”
The production launches The Philly Cycle, InterAct’s new five-year initiative to commission, develop, and produce three original plays inspired by and created with underrepresented Philadelphia communities. ‘ON MY DEEN’ marks the first of these landmark productions, bringing together local voices, lived experiences, and local artists to shape the future of new play development.
Performances of ‘ON MY DEEN’ will take place at the Proscenium Theatre at The Drake, 302 S. Hicks Street, from June 6 to 28. Saturday performances will be held at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. in observance of prayer. Tickets are available at interacttheatre.
In addition, InterAct will host various discussions for audience members. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays will be facilitated by Artistic Director Seth Rozin, and on Saturdays, there will be artist talkbacks with literary manager, Chaz T. Martin, and various special guests.
