What better way to address fiction and non-truths, than with the Truth?
By DL White
Welcome to February and the celebration of African American History (Black History) and the “real” contributions (not assumed or theory-based) of men and women of African-American descent, who contributed to the fabric of America’s and the world’s development.
After a nearly two-year hiatus, the award-winning production of Black Women Walking (BWW) presented by Seek First Entertainment is triumphantly returning to the Performing Arts Center at Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, AZ 85392, with performances slated for February 24 & 25, with a curtain at 7:30 p.m. (Streaming available).BWW shares the stories, trials, and triumphs of real individuals whose lives, achievements, and gifts influenced and moved Dr. Carter G. Woodson to act with urgency to tell and share their stories and so many others as well.
In its 13th season, this beloved Black History Month tradition brings to life the stories of courageous Black heroines who changed the course of American history.
The return of Black Women Walking could not have come at a more opportune time. There is an intentional campaign across the country to limit the teaching and classroom discussions of significant events in this nation’s history. Some school districts are going as far to ban certain books that provide a clear and concise historical perspective of America in its yesteryear. A not too glamorous past. The attempt to ‘whitewash” the accounts and contributions by men and women of African descent is underway stated a frustrated educator……..(nothing like the truth to combat ignorance and fear!)
BWW is a powerful stage production written by Karen F. Williams and adapted/directed by Kevvin L. Taylor. The play unfolds through masterful storytelling, gospel music, multimedia and contemporary dance (Choreographed by Sukie Keita and Khaila Matthews). Black Women Walking brings together an ensemble of lived experiences and perspectives that elicit from audiences’ laughter, tears, and praises as it journeys through the stories of Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Rosa Parks, Bessie Coleman, Fannie Lou Hamer, Willie Mae Ford Smith, Ida B. Wells and so many more. All God-fearing women who moved by faith and stepped with courage on their journey towards freedom, equality, and justice.
Heart-warming, thought-provoking, highly educational, and entertaining, BWW like a savory meal delights the taste buds of individuals uniquely different but everyone leaves full.
Neal A. Lester, Ph.D. – The director of Arizona State University’s Project Humanities stated that “These women are warriors and survivors. Theirs is a story that needs to be told!”
Many agree with Dr. Lester and several ladies reported, related their struggles and challenges today, to those of the presented in the performances which were described as “strong, determined, exemplifying intestinal-fortitude throughout.”
According to the play’s director and producer, Kevvin Taylor – now working on Broadway in New York City,
“Black Women Walking educates, entertains and encourages. It is a spiritual-based play with universal themes of empowerment, education, liberation, and finding strength in the struggle.”
Toni Simmons Henson, Producing Director of Atlanta Black Theatre Festival stated, “Black Women Walking overwhelmed our audiences with a masterful combination of movement and digital storytelling that ended in a thunderous ovation. There’s no wonder it won the coveted Festival Favorite Award for Best Play!” Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Feb 24 & 25. Tickets are $30 for general admission (in-person viewing) and $45 for Stream Pass (virtual viewing). All tickets must be reserved online. To order your tickets, click here.
Seating is limited and masks will be required.