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"Sometimes, under those hats, there’s a lot of joy and a lot of sorrow"
– Velma from Crowns

Videos >
Exclusive Videos: Take a look into Arena Stage's production of Crowns
From the Page to the Stage >
Learn about the book that inspired Crowns, the musical
From the Dramaturg’s Notebook >
Venture through the creation of Crowns and its relevancy today

Costuming Crowns >
Costume designer Austin Sanderson shares the sketches that inspired the clothes onstage
Meet the Next Yolanda >
Yolanda Search winner Zurin Villanueva sits down with Amrita Mangus, Crowns’ production dramaturg, for a lively discussion about the audition process, Yolanda, and the essence of “hattitude”
Finishing the Hat >
Chronicle the hat making process for Crowns

Discovering the Carolinas >
Take a journey to the places of Crowns
The Belles of Bennett >
An inside look at one of the only universities dedicated to the education of black women
Tracing Traditions >
Discover how Crowns connects to the Yoruba traditions of Africa
I’m Gonna Sing All Over >
Explore the soulful styles of music (with video and audio clips!) featured in Crowns
Shout It Out >
Learn about the ring shout, one prominent form of worship seen in Crowns
"Hattitude" >
A collection of photographer Michael Cunningham’s work that captures that special attitude needed to “carry off” a hat

What Else? >
Curious to dig deeper? Check out our list of favorite books and websites
Arena's Page >
Community Engagement's helpful student study guide

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