A hip-hop musical exploring tech, gentrification, and community in the Bay Area.
Set against the backdrop of the Bay Area's tech boom, Co-Founders tells the story of Esata, a talented yet underrecognized coder from Oakland. Facing the threat of losing her home due to gentrification, Esata infiltrates a prestigious San Francisco startup accelerator. There, she forms an unexpected alliance with a prep-school dropout, challenging the norms of Silicon Valley and striving to protect her community without compromising her values.
The musical is a collaborative creation by Ryan Nicole Austin, Beau Lewis, and Adesha Adefela, all of whom bring authentic Bay Area perspectives to the narrative. Directed by Jamil Jude, the production features a dynamic score that blends hip-hop with soul, gospel, funk, jazz, and R&B.
Co-Founders employs innovative visual technology to enhance its storytelling, offering a fresh theatrical experience. The musical serves as a celebration of the Bay Area's rich cultural tapestry, highlighting the resilience and creativity of its communities amidst rapid technological and social change.