HOUSTON, Jan. 16, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Ensemble Theatre will usher into Black History Month with the presentation of "From the Mississippi Delta," by Dr. Endesha I.M. Holland, January 29th through February 22nd, presented in the George Hawkins Mainstage, The Ensemble Theatre-3535 Main Street.
In the tradition of Shakin' the Mess Outta Misery and Having Our Say, The Ensemble Theatre presents Dr. Endesha Ida Mae Holland's heartfelt autobiography, FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA. From the engrossing perspective of Dr Holland's fictional persona, Phelia, a young adolescent stepping precariously into womanhood, the play continues the celebration of generations of women propelled through life---like a rite of passage over odds---only to discover at the climax of their journey-a life of infinite possibilities. With action set against decades including the 1960's Civil Rights era, Phelia blends facts of the creator's life with the legends of the people she knew in Mississippi.
What makes "Delta" all the more entertaining and mesmerizing is three actresses (Rachel Hemphill-Dickson - most recently seen in Harlem After Hours and Checkmates, Nicole Ford, seen also in The Ensemble Theatre's In Walks Ed and Harlem After Hours, and Alice M. Gatling who was most recently seen in The Ensemble Theatre's encore staging of The Piano Lesson) who portray all the roles in her life-of all genders and ages, including her beloved mother, "Ain't Baby'-a mid-wife known as "The Second Doctor Lady" by her community.
Through the nurturing of Ain't Baby, the missteps along the way, and unforgettable townsfolk, Phelia discovers the wonder in life, the violations of segregation, and renewal as she pursues her education and destiny as an activist. Audiences will be drawn into the ebb and flow of her awakening to life. Originally produced for Broadway by Oprah Winfrey, it is as if Dr. Holland's life was always destined for the stage. It captivates, uplifts and inspires!
From the Mississippi Delta is a brilliant treatise of the power of place, self-discovery, self-love, and the infinite possibilities of transformation-for a young woman-for us all.
For ticket information and group sales call The Ensemble Theatre Box office at 713-520-0055 x 306.
Founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins, The Ensemble Theatre is one of the oldest and most distinguished professional theatres in the U.S. devoted to the African American experience.
"From the Mississippi Delta" is generously underwritten by Shell Oil. The Ensemble Theatre is funded in part by grants from the city of Houston through the Cultural Arts Council of Houston/Harris County.