Freshworks: Yusef Shelton (Ys1)
KST Presents
Barbershop Talk
Friday & Saturday, October 4* – 5*, 2024 | *with discussion
7:30pm – 9:00pm (including discussion)
KST’s Alloy Studios | 5530 Penn Ave.
Pay What Moves You: $15 – $30
Barbershops have long been centers of economic prosperity and societal transformation, serving as safe havens for Black folks and playing a crucial role in the early hip-hop scene. Barbershop Talk is a deeply personal performance in progress from Freshworks artist in residence Yusef Shelton (Ys1) set within a stylized barbershop environment. Through spoken word, and dance, Ys1 transports the audience into the heart of Black barbershop culture and brings to life the candid conversations and shared experiences that give these communal spaces their transformative impact.
Barbershop Talk features original songs performed by Ys1, enhancing the artist’s narrative with vibrant rhythms and dynamic beats. Ys1 explores how the therapeutic experience of going to a barbershop, along with meditation, journaling, and faith devotion has helped him through challenging periods in his life. The project aims to encourage Black men to prioritize holistic self-care by emphasizing the importance of mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Barbershop Talk is a celebration of resilience, a catalyst for positive social change, and a call for audiences to embrace their authenticity and navigate life with confidence and purpose.
Photo Credit: Tosin Adebayo
AND DON’T MISS…
Freshworks: Arnita Simone
Heavy is the Crown
Friday & Saturday, November 1* – 2*, 2024 | *with discussion
7:30pm – 9:00pm (including discussion)
KST’s Alloy Studios | 5530 Penn Ave.
Pay What Moves You: $15 – $30
- ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Yusef Shelton (Ys1) is a multidisciplinary artist known for his innovative blend of music, storytelling, and visual aesthetics. With a passion for exploring cultural narratives, Ys1 creates immersive experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. From humble beginnings, Yusef has performed at prestigious venues including Carnegie Mellon University and the August Wilson Center. He recently launched his merchandise line, “Da First,” and his new album Ignite, which showcases his boundary-pushing resilience and commitment to purpose-driven art.