"THE REVOLUTION IS RED" : TODD ANTHONY AND CRYSTAL LEE BROWN BRING ONE-MAN SHOW TO PHILLY
Step inside the powerful world of Todd Anthony’s one-man stage production “RED” and experience a story that brings Malcolm X’s legacy, life, humanity, and message to life.
Shayna Sherie
7/12/2026
Currently it’s 11:10 P.M., and the El Train is full. The sound of my city is loud, yet quiet. Quiet , the word is so silent, yet so loud. It made me think of a quote by Malcolm X: “A man that stands for nothing will fall for anything.” Is this when being quiet has to go out the window and you have to take a chance, a risk, an ultimate move to make a change?
One man that is making a change is North Philly’s own Executive Producer, writer, actor Todd Anthony. Todd just delivered an out-of-this-world performance in his one-man show “RED.” The play brings the story of an iconic leader to life, but not just as one of the world’s giants, but as a human. He effortlessly embodies RED/Malcom X.
There was storm in our city of Philadelphia today but that wasn't stopping me from attending . After arriving around 5:30 P.M. and waiting to be seated as press/media, I watched the people in line for over 30 minutes get tickets scanned, express their excitement for the show, and take selfies. Everyone was joyous to be in attendance.Finally, when I was told I could enter the theater, the energy was even more impactful as music played from Lyfe Jennings and Akon and people got adjusted into the theater.
The show is over and it's hours later, and honestly, I’m still in awe of what I just saw. Each scene leaves you on the edge of your seat as suddenly you are taken back in time. It’s like Malcolm is really speaking to you. It's like you time traveled and ended up in the 1960's during a crucial time in America and the world.
There are so many moments and lines in the play. Trust me, I’m holding back , I don’t want to spoil it for you. This play is not just a must-see, but it’s a must-hear, a must-feel, a must-be. As In you must be in the building to witness greatness.
Honestly, I’m thinking the home city needs an encore. This is more than a stage play. It’s a moment to spark conversation, power, unity, transformation, and much more. Emmy nominated actress , Crystal Lee Brown's directorial debut is astounding. Her direction is pivotal and does not waiver. Her choice of movements and scene changes are so remarkable. There some scenes that were so powerful (they all are) but I just wanted to stand up and clap and scream because they were so good .
The Seaport Museum was full of people that came to see a show, but left with a changed mind.
“RED” needs to be seen by everyone worldwide. Broadway needs this. TV needs this.
What a sensational show.
Huge shoutout to the host of the evening, radio personality Michael Shawn; the production team; and staff that made this happen.
Huge congratulations to Todd Anthony for not being quiet and deciding to be a vessel to emphasize the legacy of Malcolm X, but also for not letting his passion, dreams, or purpose stay silent.
Thank you!
For more on RED follow @redthestageplay
Todd Anthony _@toddanthony
Crystal Lee Brown
@crystalleebrown
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