Idris Ackamoor and Cultural Odyssey

Idris Ackamoor and Cultural Odyssey produces original work rooted in African American music, dance, and theatrical traditions. The organization’s programming consists of five annual productions performed before 5,000 locals; thousands more see its work on national and international tours. In addition, Cultural Odyssey runs The Medea Project, a pioneering artistic process that transforms the lives of incarcerated women through storytelling and performance.

Cultural Odyssey is the creative collaboration between its two founders, musician Idris Ackamoor and theater artist Rhodessa Jones, who together create, produce, and present work that reflects the contemporary African American experience. In addition to touring locally, nationally and internationally, Cultural Odyssey’s programming includes long-term theatrical work with incarcerated women. As spokespersons for late-career artists, Ackamoor and Jones have co-written resource books and articles about retirement planning for artists. New releases of previously recorded music honor the continued relevance of the artists’ careers. A renewal grant will support the continued development of Cultural Odyssey’s legacy and the development of an archive, as it expands its marketing capacity, and maintains its seasonal offerings.