Surviving The Hood: A Musical Debuts at Symphony Space October 13

NEW YORK, NY — Surviving the Hood: A Musical, an original production created by Damen and Alicia Heyward, will debut Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at the Peter Jay Sharp Theatre at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street in New York City. Performances are scheduled for 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Described as “West Side Story meets The Wire,” Surviving the Hood combines gripping drama, authentic storytelling and original music to examine gun violence, gang culture and the consequences of personal choices.

At the center of the story is a responsible young man torn between loyalty to friends involved in a violent gang and his love for a young woman who represents hope, purpose and a different future.

Will he remain loyal to the streets—or choose love and the promise of tomorrow?

THE MUSICAL GENIUS BEHIND THE VISION

Damen Heyward serves as producer, director, songwriter, composer and co-creator. He wrote, produced and composed every song, ensuring that the music remains essential to the storytelling.

A founding member of the R&B group 4 By Four and a former member of the legendary Force MDs, Heyward has built a career spanning music, theater, ministry and education. He has worked with artists including Nicki Minaj and Joe, mentored incarcerated youth at Rikers Island and used music in New York City public schools to help young people discover their purpose.

His sister and co-creator, Alicia Heyward, wrote the script. A certified television producer and former actress, Alicia created and produced Reality Chek, which aired on BronxNet, Brooklyn Free Speech and Manhattan Neighborhood Network. Her work also contributed to a New York Emmy Award nomination in the B-Creative category.

Together, Damen and Alicia created a musical rooted in firsthand experiences with young people and families affected by gun violence, gang involvement, incarceration and substance abuse.

DAMEN HEYWARD’S ABSENCE FROM COURAGEOUS: THE MUSICAL 

Before creating Surviving the Hood, Damen was a principal creative force in the early development of Courageous: The Musical, working alongside writer and director Frank Bold of Bold Art Society.

Damen helped give the original concept its sound, energy and emotional power. His music and direction were central to the scenes presented at the Courageous Black-Tie Benefit Gala at Marina Del Rey.

Creative differences led to his departure before Courageous premiered at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture on May 8, 2026—and his absence was noticeable.

Without Damen as musical director, the Schomburg presentation differed significantly from the gala preview. Some attendees expressed disappointment with the production’s musical cohesion, pacing, set design, seating confusion and audience disruptions. Those expecting the same musical energy showcased at Marina Del Rey were left disappointed.

The experience made one thing clear: Damen was more than a contributor. He was the musical heartbeat of the original vision, and when he left, its sound, spirit and impact changed.

A NEW PRODUCTION—AND A VISION FULLY REALIZED

Although Courageous and Surviving the Hood share themes of choice, consequence, violence prevention and survival, they are separate productions. Surviving the Hood represents the independent creative vision of Damen and Alicia Heyward.

For the October 13 debut, Damen has full creative control over the music, direction and theatrical experience. Audiences will hear his original songs as intended, supported by a committed cast and purposeful direction.

This is not simply a stage play accompanied by songs. Every musical number advances the story, deepens the characters and strengthens the message.

Surviving the Hood is the complete, music-driven theatrical experience Damen Heyward was meant to lead.

MORE THAN ENTERTAINMENT

At its heart, Surviving the Hood reminds young people that their environment does not have to determine their destiny.

Through compelling characters, raw emotion and original music, the production explores peer pressure, identity, loyalty, ambition, love and survival. It also reveals how violence affects families, friendships, schools and entire communities.

Parents, educators, youth organizations, violence-prevention advocates and community leaders are encouraged to attend. Individuals and organizations may also sponsor tickets for young people who might not otherwise have an opportunity to experience the production.

On October 13, Surviving the Hood will use the transformative power of music and theater to show young people why choosing a different path matters.

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

Production: Surviving the Hood: A Musical
Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Times: 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Peter Jay Sharp Theatre at Symphony Space
Address: 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, New York, NY 10025
Tickets: symphonyspace.org/events/vp-surviving-the-hood
Instagram: @survivingthehood_
Group Bookings: mailteam@survivingthehood.net
Website: www.survivingthehood.net