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Photo Flash: BOX Launches At Arena

On Thursday, August 25, more than 200 New York City influencers, connoisseurs of the arts, and celebrity notables attended the star-studded launch event for the theatrical production "BOX" at Arena. The play, BOX, is produced by Stuart Films, LLC and Browntown Entertainment, Inc. in conjunction with Michaela Productions, and Fabrice Armand, Inc.

Event attendees enjoyed a sneak preview with a featured video presentation. Preview Night for the play will be September 8th, and the Opening Night is September 15th at the Midtown Theater.

Directed by Marishka Phillips and written by the award-winning playwright, Fred Shahadi, the cast of BOX is made up of a decorated and talented cast including: Kevin Brown of the NBC Emmy award winning show, 30 Rock; and Lawrence Saint-Victor formally of CBS' Guiding Light.

"We're very thankful for everyone who came out in support of BOX," said Emelyn Stuart, Executive Producer. "Their support, and the support of those who have contributed to the production, are what make this project so unique."

BOX, the play explores the story of four Haitian men who stow away aboard an industrial ocean liner in 1988, seeking freedom by sealing themselves inside a large coffee container. It is a story of journey, survival, and the quest for the American Dream. The play highlights the similarities between their struggle and that of Henry "Box" Brown who was a former slave who mailed himself to freedom in 1848.

"It is truly fitting that just before the unveiling of the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial, and just before the big celebration of Caribbean culture on Labor Day, we are featuring a play that honors the strength and determination of both African Americans and Caribbeans who risk everything for a better life." said Fabrice Armand, one of the play's Producers.

"While the play does talk specifically about Haiti and America, it is something to which the entire African Diaspora can relate," said Star Davis, the play's Associate Producer.

Attendees also had the chance to win amazing prices including: floor seat tickets to the NJ Nets, a Barbados vacation provided by the Barbados Tourism Authority, an iPad provided by Charles David NYC Photography, an all inclusive hotel package to the Savannah Beach, jewelry cleaning and appraisal by Diamond Club International, Flavors of Her t-shirts, RINY Media, Plushskin, and Anaiz Photography.

DJ MOMA and DJ Jon Quick provided an eclectic mix of music.

BOX runs from September 8 - October 6. Go to www.BoxThePlay.com for more information.

Host Committee: Yahve Alcinay, Fabrice Armand, Elkhair Balla, Brian Benjamin, Jason Benta, Tony Clomax, Calcie Cooper, Star Davis, Jeffrey Dessources, Juanito Fortuno, Tiandra Gayle, Gary Grant, Darian Hall, Latoya Henry, Mike Jazayeri, Rita Joseph, Wes Mapes, Michael "Mancini" McConnell, Busie Matsiko, Michael Peoples, Mackenten Petion, Marishka Phillips, Nkrumah Pierre, Arlene Pitterson, Ludwig Reimmer, Diallo Shabazz, Emelyn Stuart, Auslton Taylor, Ana Tzvetkova, Neffi Walker, Taa Wongbe.