A powerful cultural dance musical that shares an immigration story through movement, music and spoken word is returning to the stage in Danbury.

“The Cedar Journey” will be performed Friday, Feb. 21, at Ives Concert Hall at Western Connecticut State University downtown campus, 181 White St. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.

The event is co-hosted by the Lebanon American Club of Danbury and the Middle Eastern Dance Academy of Connecticut. Organizers describe the production as a cultural tribute that brings together regional artists in a dance theatrical music performance.

The production is written, directed and choreographed by Kelvia Mitri-MEDA, who also stars in the show. In a personal message shared with the community, Mitri-MEDA said she created the musical to tell the story of her childhood immigration to the mainland United States. She explains that while words often failed her, dance, music and theater allowed her to express the pain of displacement, longing and identity.

Mitri-MEDA said that after spending time in Lebanon with members of the Haddad and Mitri families, she recognized deep cultural similarities between Lebanese traditions and her own background. That shared experience helped her feel understood and connected. She described Lebanon as a place that played an important role in helping her rediscover herself.

When violence escalated in Lebanon, she said she felt heartbroken and feared losing a land that had become meaningful to her. In response, she turned to her art. According to organizers, last year’s performance raised $7,500 in four weeks, with all proceeds donated to the Emergency Relief Services of the Lebanese Red Cross.

Because of the overwhelming community response, organizers have scheduled an encore performance. This year’s event will benefit club programs and honor the artists who came together to create what leaders say was a unique cultural production not seen in the community in decades.

The Lebanon American Club, founded in 1922, documented its early cultural stage performances during its 2022 centennial celebration. Archival images show early Lebanese immigrants in Danbury dressed in traditional costumes and performing on stage. Organizers say “The Cedar Journey” continues that tradition for a new generation.

Mitri-MEDA describes the musical as a story that reflects the broader immigrant experience. She said the Lebanese immigration story represents the shared story of diaspora communities everywhere. The production features dancers and musicians from Connecticut and across New England, along with members of the local Lebanese community who volunteered their time and talent.

Ticket pricing is as follows: Adult Premier Seating is $75 ($100 after Feb. 16); General Admission is $40 ($50 after Feb. 16); Students are $20; and Children 12 and under are $10.

Tickets and additional details are available through the Lebanon American Club’s event page. Organizers are also encouraging community members to share the Facebook event online. A video trailer from last year’s performance is available on the club’s website.

For tickets visit: https://wcsutickets.ticketspice.com/a-cedar-journey-musical-benefit?utm_source=qrcode&utm_medium=print

Organizers say they hope the evening will bring together families from many backgrounds to celebrate culture, artistry and the shared journey of immigration.