An unlikely comedy is making its world premiere at Persephone Theatre over the next few weeks.

‘Wake’ is the story following the death and subsequent wake of a Congolese father, which ends up bringing his family together under one roof, revealing some interesting truths.

Tony Ofori Jr. plays Pastor Fred. He says although the title makes it sound like a tearjerker, it’s sure to bring some laughs to the crowd.

“It’s a comedy. It is absolutely hilarious, which is interesting, because the show is called Wake,” he chuckled.

He adds that the production will make you draw parallels to your own life and family, while also catching you off guard.

“There is a big secret and a big reveal that happens at the end of the show. You never see it coming. We think the show is about one thing, and then it takes an absolute turn.”

The work was written by Rachel Mutombo, a Black, Canadian woman who got her start in acting, not writing. She says the success of this play is both validating and empowering for her and other Black women.

The play runs until October 4th. Tickets are available at persephonetheatre.org or at the box office.