‘Look What Fell Out De Mango Tree’ heading to St James

Award-winning writer and performer Debra Ehrhardt is partnering with Half Moon to bring her Look What Fell Out De Mango Tree to St James.

The play will be performed at the Half Moon Conference Centre on Sunday, August 4 at 4 p.m. as part of Roots, Rum, Jamaica, Half Moon’s 70th anniversary event set for August 2 to 6.

Also starring in Ehrhardt’s new play is Jamaican Juilliard-trained actor Christopher Grossett, with Oscar and Grammy Award-winning Hall of Fame songwriter and composer, Paul Williams as director.

Speaking on his decision to direct the play, Williams shared that it was the script and actors who made all the difference. “Although I’m writing two musicals and have very little time to spare, I was so impressed with the material and quality of the actors, I wanted to direct this piece,” Williams said.

Look What Fell Out De Mango Tree is presented in honour of Half Moon’s 70th anniversary with part proceeds going towards the SOS Children’s Village in Montego Bay.

Based on Ehrhardt’s life story, the play explores the importance of forgiveness and the power of vulnerability as she uncovers a big secret that unlocks her ability to forgive and transforms her relationship with men. It contains mature language and content and is not recommended for audiences under 16 years of age.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to support the arts in our community,” said Shernette Crichton, general manager of Half Moon. “This play is a fantastic way to engage in a meaningful experience that will no doubt inspire and connect. Half Moon is a proud promoter of music, art, and performance. We believe in fostering cultural connections through these media, and we are delighted that the proceeds will benefit SOS Children’s Village, one of the charities we continuously support as well as the production of What’s Your Story, Jamaica? 2025.”

There will be a moderated post-show talkback with the director and artists immediately following the performance.

Ehrhardt has performed her own stories all over the world based on her colourful life in Jamaica and has made her home in the United States while maintaining an unquestionable passion for her native land. Previous solo productions include Mango Mango, Invisible Chairs, Cock Tales: Shame on Me! and Jamaica Farewell which was produced by Rita Wilson-Hanks and Garry Marshall and has been optioned for film.

The recipient of several awards, she received a proclamation from the City of New York for her Outstanding Contribution to the Jamaican Community. She founded What’s Your Story, Jamaica?, a million-dollar storytelling competition in Kingston, and returns to Jamaica every year to produce and promote the competition.

The staging of Look What Fell Out De Mango Tree is part of Half Moon’s 70th anniversary celebratory activities, which include farm-to-table experiences, guest chef events and other exciting executions.