Exciting Theatrical Reading of August Wilson’s King Hedley II Set for November 16 in Augusta

Exciting Theatrical Reading Coming to Augusta!

In the vibrant city of Augusta, excitement is in the air as the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History gears up for a special theatrical presentation. Mark your calendars for November 16th at 3:00 PM, because it’s time to dive into the powerful world of August Wilson with his iconic play, King Hedley II.

What to Expect

This isn’t just any performance. This is part of a series of theatrical readings meant to celebrate Wilson’s incredible contributions to American theater. Jerome Preston Bates, a proud Augusta native and acclaimed actor, will be both directing and performing in this production. Known for his dynamic stage presence and deep understanding of Wilson’s work, Bates is sure to bring a unique touch to this powerful narrative.

The performance will take place in the Museum’s cozy Conference Center, creating an intimate setting for both the actors and audience. The ticket price is set at $50 per person, and with limited seating available, securing your spot early is definitely recommended!

A Conversation Following the Performance

But that’s not all! After the theatrical reading, there will be a Q&A session titled The Legacy of August Wilson, running from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity for attendees to engage with the cast, diving deeper into the themes of the play and discussing Wilson’s lasting impact on theater and the African-American experience.

Meet the Cast

Prepare to be captivated by a talented group of performers. The cast includes:

• Jerome Preston Bates as Elmore
• Russell Joel Brown as King
• Sa Jules as Ruby
• Tarika Holland as Tonya
• Reverend Chris Lowe as Stool Pigeon

Supporting this talented group are Sean Moton as Stage Manager and Shantelle Wheeler as narrator, ensuring a powerful delivery of Wilson’s timeless story.

About August Wilson

August Wilson is often referred to as the “theater’s poet of Black America.” He gained immense recognition through his series of ten plays that document the African-American experience throughout the 20th century. His writing reflects both the struggles and triumphs of the community, making his works resonate strongly with audiences from all backgrounds.

Jerome Preston Bates: A Local Treasure

Jerome Preston Bates isn’t a stranger to the stage or the museum. A graduate of Lucy Craft Laney High School and Knoxville College, Bates has an impressive resume that extends from Broadway to Off-Broadway productions. Notably, he has performed in powerful works like Death of a Salesman and several productions by Wilson, including Seven Guitars and Jitney.

His past roles have involved working alongside remarkable talents, such as Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, making him a revered figure in the theater community. Mr. Bates’ dedication to bringing August Wilson’s plays to new audiences, especially the younger generation, is nothing short of inspiring.

Get Your Tickets!

If you’re in or around Augusta, this is a chance you won’t want to miss! Tickets are now available online, and you can easily purchase them at LucyCraftLaneyMuseum.com. The museum is located at 1116 Phillips Street, Augusta, GA 30901. Should you have any inquiries, feel free to reach out to them at 706-724-3576.

This performance is not just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and the arts. Come out and join in on the celebration of August Wilson’s legacy and support local talent!