Join us for an evening of storytelling and conversation bringing African American history to life. After performances by Carolyn Evans and Kenyette Mills, there will be a discussion with the storytellers and Joseph McGill, founder of The Slave Dwelling Project. This program is free of charge and will take place on the at Belle Grove at 336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown, VA 22645.
Witness the poignant story of Lavinia Bell, a woman who fled the horrors of slavery in Texas. After several brave attempts, in 1861 she made it to freedom in Canada, walking much of the way. Lavinia Bell’s story will be brought to life by Carolyn Evans, a professional Black history storyteller and actress. Ms. Evans, who trained in drama at Syracuse University, has performed across the country, including at the renowned Apollo Theater. She reprises the roles of both sung and unsung Black sheroes. Ms. Evans is a member of The North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers. She participates in living history with the Slave Dwelling Project, a non-profit organization who has as one of its missions to support and encourage organizations to preserve and mark sites related to the institution of slavery and the legacy of slavery.
Next, take a journey through history as we explore the origins of chattel slavery in colonial Virginia. Guided by our griot—the traditional African storyteller—Kenyette, we’ll hear powerful excerpts from her riveting historical novel, The Dressmaker’s Secret. This unforgettable tale brings to life the brutal realities and quiet resilience of the enslaved, weaving their stories with those of forgotten historical figures such as Colonel Nicholas Spencer, John Mottram, Joist Hite, and Robert Carter-men who helped forge the economy of slavery in the early colonies and shaped the destinies of America's founding fathers: George Washington, James Monroe, James Madison, and Thomas Jefferson. Through Kenyette's words, history is not only remembered-it breathes!
You may also like the following events from Belle Grove Plantation:
- Next Saturday, 23rd August, 11:00 am, Shenandoah Sips: A Celebration of Virginia Wines, Ciders, Spirits & More! in Middletown
- This month, 27th August, 11:00 am, Wild Wednesday--Composting in Middletown
- This month, 31st August, 03:30 pm, Kneading in Silence: A Glimpse into the Life of the Enslaved Cook Judah in Middletown
Also check out other
Arts events in Middletown,
Theatre events in Middletown,
Performances in Middletown.
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