Promotional artwork for the documentary showcasing the lively spirit of Atlanta's artistic community.
The Adeboyé brothers, Matthew and David, are unveiling Atlanta’s rich artistic history through their new documentary ‘Live at Club Zebra.’ This film reveals the cultural impact of Club Zebra, a beloved speakeasy from 1985 to 1995, highlighting the thriving creative community of Atlanta and its contributions to art, especially for Black artists. The documentary aims to document this significant era and honor the memory of influential figures like Pearl Cleage. Screenings are planned for 2025 to further share this vital piece of history.
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as the Adeboyé brothers, Matthew and David, bring a fresh perspective to the city’s rich artistic history through their new documentary, “Live at Club Zebra.” This project has sparked conversations about a time in Atlanta that many might not be familiar with, but which left a significant mark on the creative community.
These dynamic brothers, co-creators of the Palette Group production company, are no strangers to collaboration. Their previous work with acclaimed playwright Pearl Cleage on an animated short film titled “Sit-in” helped them lay the groundwork for their venture into documentaries. Inspired by Cleage’s incredible life and her family history, they set their sights on a project showcasing Atlanta’s vibrant artistic scene.
When the Alliance Theatre’s co-artistic director, Christopher Moses, encouraged the brothers to explore Cleage’s beloved floating speakeasy show, known as Club Zebra, they were initially at a loss. Club Zebra was a gem of the Atlanta nightlife and performance landscape from 1985 to 1995, but information about it was scarce online. This lack of knowledge only heightened their curiosity.
To dive deeper, Cleage and her husband Zaron Burnett Jr. hosted a dinner with the Adeboyé brothers and friends connected to Club Zebra. The discussions at this gathering were enlightening, revealing the rich history and cultural impact of the speakeasy format that allowed artists to thrive.
Club Zebra was not just about performances; it was an experience. Attendees could enjoy the show from cabaret-style tables, sipping on beer and wine donated since the venue didn’t have an alcohol license. The informal vibe made everyone feel equal and relaxed, encouraging an intimate connection between performers and audience members.
During its heyday, Atlanta experienced a cultural boom, largely thanks to support from then-mayor Maynard Jackson and increased funding for the arts. This period saw a surge in the number of independent arts companies, contributing to an exhilarating and dynamic arts scene. Club Zebra was at the forefront of this wave, hosting numerous shows at various venues, including the West End Performing Arts Center and the prestigious National Black Arts Festival.
With access to archived footage from Emory University’s Rose Library, the Adeboyé brothers were able to weave together a tapestry of stories, performances, and experiences from Club Zebra. The documentary is anticipated to shine a light on the valuable history of artistic expression in Atlanta, positioning it alongside the legendary Harlem Renaissance.
(Efforts are underway to hold additional screenings of “Live at Club Zebra” in 2025 for those eager to experience this piece of history.) The brothers aim to highlight and honor the untold stories of Atlanta’s vibrant past, reliving a time when art flourished and creativity knew no bounds.
The cultural impact of Pearl Cleage is being celebrated beyond Atlanta’s borders as the Goodman Theatre in Chicago announces a month-long festival in her honor. The Pearl Cleage Festival will run through October 15, showcasing her works in local theater productions, including “Blues for an Alabama Sky” and “The Nacirema Society”, along with staged readings and workshops. This acknowledgment exemplifies the importance of community in the realm of theater.
As “Live at Club Zebra” comes to fruition, it promises to be not just a documentary but a heartfelt tribute to a community that fostered artistic expression and collaboration. The creative spirit of Atlanta lives on, and the Adeboyé brothers are helping to ensure that it will not be forgotten.
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