Towne Street Theatre’s Pride and Juneteenth Reading Series

Embrace the intersectionality of liberation in Towne Street Theatre’s work as they honor the struggles and triumphs of both movements. Let’s continue to shine a light on the stories that shape our shared history and inspire change in the 21st century. Join them in promoting equality and diversity in all forms of expression. Together, we can make a difference!

Talkbacks with writer/director/cast follow each performance.

Jump The Broom by Mildred Lewis

Directed by Kiziana Jean-Louis

Under threat of a sale, two enslaved women decide to marry under the stars in Dahomey tradition.

The Signing by Sharon Cleveland Blount

Directed by Justin Lord

Within a 24-hour period, Robert Hemings remembers coming upon the Declaration of Independence, in the summer of 1776, at a home in Philadelphia. He accompanies his boss, Thomas Jefferson, who prepares to present the governing words the next day to the members of the Second Continental Congress. Hemings, a well-read man, is able to take full ownership of the empowering, all-inclusive words written on the parchment.

Randall & Ward Attend The Theatre by Rom Watson

Directed by Twon Marcel Pope

Ward meets Randall outside a theatre before they go in to watch the show. Randall reveals that they met four years ago at this same theatre, and the subsequent discussion reveals the history and the future of their relationship.

Until The Storm Passes by Fernando Dovalina

Directed by JP Rapozo

An African-American woman and her husband, now living life as a woman, are in the midst of preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Ike, and they argue over whether to tell their son that his father is now living life as Gloria. Suddenly, the son arrives to take his parents to safety. Fireworks ensue. And so do honesty, understanding and love.

Produced by Nancy Cheryll Davis and Sarah Allyn Bauer