Pain To Power: A Kanye West Musical Protest
Mar 19, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
| Studio
Presented by the Segal Centre in association with Black Theatre Workshop
Originally produced by the Winnipeg Jewish Theatre
Starring CJ CAPITAL & SETH ZOSKY
What do you do when your hero breaks your heart?
CJ Capital and Seth Zosky saw Kanye West as one of their biggest musical inspirations. Now that their hero has turned against their communities, the two of them question whether it is really possible to separate the art from the artist. Featuring Hip Hop chart-toppers such as “Heartless”, “Four-Five Seconds”, “Power”, “Ultralight Beam”, “American Boy”, and “Runaway”, interweaved with Seth’s and CJ’s stories of family, faith, and friendship, this will be a theatrical experience you don’t want to miss!
Creative Team:
Co-Creators: CJ Capital, Dan Petrenko, Tracey Erin Smith, Seth Zosky
Music & Lyrics: CJ Capital & Seth Zosky, and Kanye West
Director: Dan Petrenko
Dramaturg: Tracey Erin Smith
Choreographer: Travae Williams
Music Production and Arrangements: Seth Zosky
Additional Music Production: CJ Capital, Konrad Pluta
Original Lighting Designer: Liam Naughten
Original Projection Designer: Dan Petrenko
First Produced in March 2024 at the Winnipeg Jewish Theatre.
AUDIENCE ADVISORY
The Segal Centre acknowledges that some content may be difficult for some people. We want to provide audiences with the information to care for their well-being and decide what is appropriate for their children. Should you be unsure based on the advisory, please contact us and we will be happy to help you with your decision.
Please note that babes in arms or children under the age of two (2) are not permitted in the theatre unless expressed permission is given by the theatre.
- The show is recommended for grade 9+ (or minimum ages 14-15),
- There is swearing in the lyrics,
- Strobe lighting,
- Theatre haze,
- Loud music,
- Mention of the Holocaust, antisemitism, slavery, and death of young people,
- First-hand description of October 7th, 2023 in Israel,
- Coarse language and racial slurs.
Click here for a list of generous individuals, companies and foundations whose substantial annual donations help bring the magic to life.
FAQ for Pain to Power: A Kanye West Musical Protest
- Why is the Segal Centre presenting a show about Kanye West?
We understand that Kanye West’s recent words and actions have caused deep harm. Pain to Power is not a tribute to him; it is a protest and a critical re-examination of the impact of celebrity figures who betray our values. This show confronts these realities through theatre.
- Is this show a celebration of Kanye West?
No. Pain to Power interrogates Kanye West’s influence and the sense of betrayal felt by fans who once idolized him. It explores disillusionment, identity, and the dangers of unchecked celebrity power.
- How is Kanye West’s music used in the show?
The show repurposes Kanye’s music to tell the stories of two young men grappling with identity and betrayal. This is an act of protest, not endorsement, and reclaims the music to tell a new and necessary story.
- Does Kanye West benefit financially from this production?
No. Kanye West does not receive royalties or licensing fees from this production. The show operates under legal fair use for critical engagement.
- Is it common for theatre to critique controversial figures?
Yes. Theatre has a long history of critically examining problematic figures, from The Producers satirizing Hitler to works like Cabaret exploring social issues through uncomfortable material. Pain to Power continues this tradition.
- How does the show address the harm Kanye West has caused?
Pain to Power centers the voices of those harmed by Kanye West’s antisemitic, anti-Black, and harmful rhetoric, highlighting the human impact of his words through the lens of young people navigating betrayal and identity.
- What is the broader message of the show?
Beyond Kanye West, Pain to Power explores the dangers of celebrity culture, social media influence, and the complexities of idolization in today's digital age.
- What questions does the show aim to raise?
- How do we navigate relationships with public figures who betray our trust?
- How do we separate the artist from the art—and should we?
- What happens when an idol turns against their own fans?
- What is the overall intent of Pain to Power?
The show is about love, friendship, and finding strength in community during difficult times. It uses theatre to heal, foster dialogue, and turn pain into something meaningful.
- What if I’m uncomfortable with this production?
We respect your feelings. Pain to Power invites open conversation and critical thought. For those ready to join the dialogue, we welcome you. For those who are not, we understand. We believe in the power of art to challenge, question, and bring communities together.