Media Library & Blog
Daniel Koa Beaty is the founder of I Dream, and an award-winning actor, singer, writer, and activist who harnesses the power of art to heal and empower communities. Renowned for his captivating performances, powerful films, impactful books, and innovative social emotional arts programs, Koa’s work inspires change and fosters resilience across diverse audiences.
Performances
Knock Knock
Beaty’s spoken-word performance about a childhood lived in the shadow of incarceration is transformed into a gentler but equally affecting story for a younger audience. Illustrator, Bryan Collier’s (Fifty Cents and a Dream) watercolor collages capture the sadness of a thoughtful African-American boy whose father disappears and whose mother will not say where he has gone.
Emergency
Present day. A Slave Ship emerges out of the Hudson River in front of the Statue of Liberty sending NYC into a frenzy. Emergency is an intricately woven, urgent, witty and moving exploration of our shared humanity and what it means to be free. An explosive play where rhythm, rhyme and remembrance rise.
The Tallest Tree in the Forest
The Tallest Tree in the Forest is a play about the life of one of the most dynamic figures in American History – Paul Robeson. This theatrical work explores the evolution of Paul Robeson as an artist/activist, his humanity, his courage, his contradictions, and why many call him The Tallest Tree in the Forest.
Mr. Joy
What happened to Mr. Joy? A Harlem community is shaken when Mr. Joy, a Chinese immigrant whose shoe repair shop has been a neighborhood pillar for decades, is the victim of an attack. Mr. Joy invites us to consider how we respond to violence as individuals and as a community, and the power of the invisible ties that bind us all.
Breath & Imagination
Present day. A Slave Ship emerges out of the Hudson River in front of the Statue of Liberty sending NYC into a frenzy. Emergency is an intricately woven, urgent, witty and moving exploration of our shared humanity and what it means to be free. An explosive play where rhythm, rhyme and remembrance rise.
Through the Night
Through the Night is the story of six interconnected Black males ages 10 to 60: a child scientist, a young man from the projects on his way to college, an ex-convict, a corporate executive, a health food store owner, and the Bishop of a mega church – and the people who love them as they make it Through the Night.
Art with a purpose
Dive deeper into the impactful work of Daniel Koa Beaty by exploring his performances, films, books, and plays that have inspired countless individuals. Click here to experience his transformative art and discover how it fosters healing and empowerment.
Join I Dream
Take the first step towards transforming lives and empowering communities through the power of social emotional arts. Join our community today and be part of a movement that drives real, measurable change. Koa and the team will be in touch shortly after.
