Nas is reportedly working on adapting his 1984 Hip-Hop film Beat Street for the Broadway stage.
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According to The Hollywood Reporter, serving as co-producer, Nas, alongside Arthur Baker, who served as co-producer, composer, and musical producer on the original movie, is working to “expand and create new material inspired by the original film’s soundtrack."
Nas announced the news on Friday. after a 40th anniversary screening of Beat Street at the Tribeca Festival. Talking about taking on the project, and his first venture into the world of theater, he said, “Beat Street wasn’t just a film – it spread the revolution of hip-hop culture throughout the country and the world. It left an indelible mark, inspiring generations of young artists and creating new hip-hop fans alike.”
He continued, “It’s a thrill for me to join the creative team of Beat Street, bringing the raw energy of hip-hop into the fabric of Broadway. It’s an honor to breathe new life into this iconic work and celebrate its enduring legacy.”
Beat Street, the original cult classic released in 1984, follows a graffiti artist, a DJ, and a break-dancer in the South Bronx as they strive to make it in the new hip-hop scene. The film stars Rae Dawn Chong, Gus Davis, and Jon Chardiet and features music by Harry Belafonte and Baker, with appearances by some of the major artists of the era, including Doug E. Fresh, DJ Kool Herc and Afrika Bambataa & The Sonic Force , and more.