Woodie King’s New Federal Theatre presents a 50th anniversary revival of Martin Duberman’s In White America, which tracks American race relations from colonial times through the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education.
In White America clearly illustrates that American history and African American history is truly one in separable story. It is an historical journey from colonial America up to the landmark Brown versus the Board of Education in 1954.
The play is drawn from historical records and original recorded stories told by former slaves. The plays major theme is the quest for freedom and equality–a theme that is deeply integrated in the 46 year history of the new federal theater.
The New Federal Theatre’s Woodie King Jr. says that the play illustrates the historical background of injustices which are still happening now. He states, “I am producing the 50th anniversary production of In White America because it’s like watching history repeat itself. Duberman’s research was 50 years ahead of its time. The play actually shows that American History and African American History are really one story.”
The cast includes Blair Baker, Ezra Barnes, Art McFarland, Joanna Rhinehart, Bill Tatum, Shane Taylor and Bill Toles. Scenic design is by Chris Cumberbatch. Costume design is by Gail Cooper-Hecht. Lighting design is by Shirley Prendergast. Musical arrangements are by Bill Toles. Charles Maryan, the director, stage managed the original Off-Broadway production.
