MLK Day celebrations to feature re-enactments of Dr. King’s speeches, song and dance
SARASOTA, FL – Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe again invites the community to celebrate the rich legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during two inspirational performances. The production, titled “MLK: Celebrating His Legacy in Spoken Word and Song,” will feature re-enactments of Dr. King’s speeches, song and dance. The celebrations take place on Sunday, January 19, and Monday, January 20, 7:30-9:30 p.m., at the Booker High School VPA Theatre (3201 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota).
Program highlights will include excerpts from Dr. King’s speeches and writings, re-enacted by Reverend Charles McKenzie, interspersed with singing and dancing by some of WBTT’s most popular performers, including WBTT founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs. Additionally, the Sarasota County Bar Association Council for Diversity & Inclusion and Booker High School will announce their annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. essay contest winner, who will present his or her essay.
"For Americans throughout the country and all of us at the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, the commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a significant occasion," said Jacobs. "At our organization, we promote and celebrate the African-American experience. Dr. King's leadership during the Civil Rights Movement is a major part of that experience and we are proud to honor his enduring legacy."
This program is sponsored by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and the Council for Diversity & Inclusion.
“We are so delighted to be collaborating, once again, with Booker High School and the Council for Diversity & Inclusion," said WBTT executive director Julie Leach. "In addition to celebrating the essay contest-winning student, we will have several Booker VPA program students who have been part of our Stage of Discovery Summer Theatre intensive program performing during these evenings."
Tickets are $15/adult general admission or $35/premium seating (plus applicable fees); student tickets are $5 (ages 25 and under with valid ID). For tickets and information, call Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe at 941-366-1505 or visit www.westcoastblacktheatre.org.
About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is to produce professional theater that promotes and celebrates the African-American experience, to attract diverse audiences, to support and develop African-American artists, and to build the self-esteem of African-American youth. For more information about WBTT, visit the website at westcoastblacktheatre.org or call 941-366-1505.
