An unforgettable night of comedy, music, and real talk at iMPAC on January 16, 2026

What better way to kick off the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend than with an electrifying, one-night-only performance of the national touring stage play Background Check—coming to the Immersive Media Performing Arts Center (iMPAC) at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Harrison County Campus on Friday, January 16 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Written and directed by Jermaine “J Cole” Coleman, Sr., a U.S. Army veteran, educator, entertainer, and proud former Gulfport resident, Background Check brings a powerful mix of star power, social commentary, and soul-stirring entertainment to the stage. The production has taken audiences by storm nationwide and now returns to its roots for a night that promises to be as moving as it is entertaining.

This high-energy theatrical experience features a dynamic cast of national celebrities including:

• “Bruh Man” from the legendary TV series Martin
• Tabitha Duncan, from the platinum-selling R&B group Kut Klose
• Alexis Spight, BET’s Sunday Best finalist and Stellar Award nominee
• T Bryant, Southern Soul’s fastest-rising star
• Plus special surprise guests and a live band keeping the music and energy flowing all night long

Set at a lively 20-year high school reunion, Background Check explores themes of friendship, trust, romance, and the far-reaching influence of social media. With unforgettable characters, heart, humor, and a soundtrack that brings the house down, this is a show that speaks to real-life issues while keeping audiences laughing and singing along.

Tickets are expected to sell quickly—purchase yours now at impacgulfcoast.com.