In a powerful festivity of art,resilience,adn second chances,the acclaimed play Breakin’ the Mummy’s Code is making a triumphant return to the stage. Originally performed by incarcerated actors within the walls of sing Sing Correctional Facility, this groundbreaking production is set to captivate audiences once again on February 3 at the New York Theater Workshop.the revival is inspired by the Golden globe-nominated film Sing Sing, which brought the story of these actors to the big screen, reuniting the original cast for a live performance that promises to be both moving and transformative.

Hosted by J. Smith-Cameron, best known for her role in HBO’s Succession, the event will also feature a post-show discussion with the original cast and director Brent buell, portrayed by Paul Raci in the film.This intimate Q&A session will delve into the profound impact of the arts on rehabilitation, offering audiences a deeper understanding of how creativity can change lives.

The production will showcase a stellar lineup of performers, including original cast members Clarence Maclin, Sean “Dino” Johnson, Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez, and John “divine G” Whitfield. Their collective journey—from incarceration to artistic expression—highlights the transformative power of the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program,which has been a beacon of hope for many at Sing Sing.

‘Sing Sing’ Play to Be Performed by Original Cast in New York
“Breakin’ the Mummy’s Code,” as performed inside the Sing Sing Correctional Facility. Courtesy Image

This unusual event is a collaboration between A24, The Just Trust, and RTA, with the new York Theatre Workshop providing the stage for this powerful narrative. The film sing sing, directed by Greg kwedar, stars Colman Domingo as John “Divine G” Whitfield, a man wrongfully imprisoned who finds purpose through the RTA program. Rooted in true events, the movie features many of the original participants from Sing Sing, adding an authentic and deeply personal layer to its storytelling.

For Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez, the journey has been especially poignant. After spending nearly 24 years behind bars for a wrongful murder conviction, Velazquez was exonerated in September. Less than a year after his release, he found himself back at Sing Sing—this time as an actor in the film sing Sing. Reflecting on the experience, Velazquez described the project as “one of the most critically important things I’ve done in my life.”

As the curtain rises on this revival, it serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of the arts. For those seeking inspiration, this performance is more than just a play—it’s a celebration of second chances, the enduring power of creativity, and the unyielding hope that art can bring to even the most challenging circumstances.