Plays Celebrating African-American History Coming to LSUS Stage

In celebration of Black History Month, Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) is set to host two plays that shed light on notable figures within African-American history. The productions – “The Meeting” by Jeff Stetson and “The Drum” by Judi Ann Mason and Vincent Williams – aim to educate audiences about the notable achievements in the African-American civil rights movements.

“The Meeting”

Centred around a hypothetical encounter between Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, “The Meeting” offers insights into their differing philosophies and the common ground they both shared in their push for African-American liberation. This thought-provoking play gives audiences a glance into an imagined conversation between these historical titans.

In the words of Robert Alford II, an associate professor of theatre at LSUS, “You see their differences, but the play suggests they have more in common than you think they would.”

Showtimes and Ticket Information

Staged in collaboration with the LSUS Drama Club and the Mahogany Ensemble Theatre, “The Meeting” is scheduled for Friday and Saturday at the University Center Theatre on the LSUS campus. The ticket price is $15 with a discounted rate of $5 for students.

“The Drum”

Unlike “The Meeting,” “The Drum” brings to spotlight lesser-known, but equally crucial figures within African-American history. In this narrative, students are tasked with telling the story of black history in America by focusing on unsung heroes like Bessie Coleman, the first female African-American aviator, amongst others.

The play is a free performance, held only once on February 22 at the University Center Theatre, and it promises to take spectators on a “poetical, lyrical, and spiritual journey through the Black Experience in America”.

Inclusion and Community Engagement

Presented by the LSUS Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement, “The Drum” enhances the university’s efforts to inclusively engage middle and high school students on campus. As Dr. Kenna Franklin, Assistant Vice Provost for Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement notes, it is an opportunity to celebrate African-American contributions to arts while recognizing these selected figures from the perspective of the younger generation.

“Research tell us one of the best ways to engage a population is for them to see themselves in a positive manor, and we want to strategically engage these students who may not otherwise be exposed to a college experience,” Dr. Franklin added.

For further inquiry about the plays, contact Robert Alford II at robert.alford@lsus.edu and Dr. Kenna Franklin at kenna.franklin@lsus.edu or by phone at 318-797-5084.

The staging of both “The Meeting” and “The Drum” is a significant step in the celebration of Black History Month, highlighting the often underrated contributions of African-Americans. These productions serve to educate and inspire, reminding audiences of the shared historical experience we can all appreciate, learn from, and work towards improving.