HOUSTON, Jan. 16, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Ensemble Theatre is most proud to announce the exciting production of "Color Me Dark: A Story of the Great Migration North" in celebration of "Black History Month." The play, which is based on an award-winning book by author Patricia McKissack, adapted by Jerome Hairston and directed by Steven J. Scott, was commissioned by the Kennedy Center Education Department & Scholastic Entertainment and reflects on how even our youth possess the power and possibility of healing and overcoming prejudice.
The Ensemble Theatre presents this wonderful production, which tells the heartwarming story of two sisters, Nellie Lee and Erma Jean Love, and their family, set in Tennessee in 1919. The play follows a black family who journeys from the South to the North after a relative is brutally slain by a racist mob. The two sisters are at the center of the story, and this insightful play examines race, identity, sisterhood and the notion of self-love. This provocative piece of theatre, reminiscent of "The Color Purple," will entertain as it combines an important moment in the history of our nation with the tender tale of a loving family.
Preview dates are Saturday, January 21 at 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, January 22 at 3:00 p.m., and Wednesday, January 25 at 7:30 p.m. Opening Night is Thursday, January 26 at 7:30 p.m. with a Media Reception at 6:00 p.m., followed by the performance at The Ensemble Theatre, located at 3535 Main St. "Color Me Dark" is generously supported through the Cultural Arts Council of Houston/Harris County (CACHH).
Cast members include Candice Felix, Brooke Davis, Nicholas Lewis, Ane Mouton, Rashad Edwards and Cameron Worthen. "Color Me Dark" is rated (G) for general audiences.
"Color Me Dark: A Story of the Great Migration North"
Author Patricia McKissack & Adaptor Jerome Hairston
January 26-February 19, 2006
Performance Times
Previews: Saturday January 21 8:00 p.m.
Sunday Jan. 22 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday Jan. 25 7:30 p.m.
Thursdays 7:30 p.m.
Fridays 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays 2:00 p.m. Matinee & 8:00 p.m.
Sundays 3:00 p.m. Matinee
For ticket information and groups sales, call the Box Office at (713) 520-0055.
Founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins, The Ensemble Theatre has evolved to be the largest African-American professional theatre company in the U.S. that produces in-house and owns its own facility. It is truly one of Houston's finest historical cultural institutions. The theatre is a non-profit organization that houses three stages located on Main Street in the heart of Midtown. Each year the theatre presents a repertoire of critically acclaimed dramas, comedies and musicals that demonstrate the artistic ability of more than 250 professional local, regional and national artists and support staff. The theatre also has an educational touring program and a summer young performers training program. The Ensemble celebrated when the theatre accomplished two major milestones: the retirement of its $360,000 debt remaining from its $4.5 million capital campaign, and the dedication of a METRO commuter rail stop named in the theatre's honor. For more information, please visit the website at www.ensemblehouston.com.