Douglass Theatre Presents Black History Month Activities
As the Douglass Theatre enters its second century, the historic theatre is proud to present the 2023 Black History Month Celebration with an array of exciting occasions, crowd-pleasing favorites and high-quality selections.
“February may be the shortest month on the calendar. But, at the Douglass, it always has an outsized impact for our patrons and Middle Georgia residents,” said Gina Ward, the Théâtre’s director.
Ward noted that February is also the month the theatre’s founder and builder Charles Henry Douglass was born—on February 17, to be exact.
“February carries deep significance for us at the Douglass,” she added. “On that Friday evening, we will honor Mr. Douglass with a unique tribute and celebration. And, throughout the month, we present activities worthy of both Black History Month and him.”
Here is the fantastic array of the Douglass’s 2023 Black History Month programming:
The month opens with the Jimmy L. Mills Jr. Choral Heritage Festival, named for the late musician, educator and Douglass board chairman. The festival upholds his vision of introducing the artistry of Negro Spirituals to new generations of singers. The 2023 festival hosts Dr. Eric Poole, Howard University’s chorale director. As an added treat, the Howard University Chorale will perform as special guest. Chorale programs from the following Bibb County high schools—Central, Howard, Northeast and Rutland–will participate in the two-day festival, which includes intensive workshops and guided rehearsals. It will culminate with a public recital at the theatre on Friday, February 3 at 6:00 p.m. Free.
The Black History Month Film Series
For three consecutive Fridays, the Douglass’s silver screen will present major titles from today’s cinematic world. The dramatic story of Emmett Till opens the series on Friday, Feb. 10. Till is the hard-hitting account of Mamie Till-Mobley’s pursuit justice for her murdered son, a tragedy that helped ignite the Civil Rights Movement. Tyler Perry’s A Jazzman’s Blues follows on Friday, Feb. 17, which happens to be the birthday of the theatre’s founder/builder Charles Henry Douglass. A special tribute to him precedes the film’s screening. The series concludes with The Woman King, starring the award-winning actress Viola Davis in the title role. See this exciting film on Friday, February 24. The free screenings occur at 7:00 p.m. The Black History Month Film Series is sponsored by Cox Communication.
The Macon Guild presents “Inspection”
The long-term Douglass partner the Macon Film Guild presents the topical film The Inspection. The 2022 drama follows a young man who faces homophobia, both at a Marines boot camp and at home from his mother. It stars Jeremy Pope and Gabrielle Union. Three showings are scheduled for Sunday, February 12, at 2:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5/$4(for film guild members).
Sing Brother! Sing Sister!
One of the Douglass’s most popular music series, Sing Brother! Sing Sister! returns with an unprecedented lineup of vocalists—five pastors and ministers from throughout the South, who will transform the Douglass into a praise house of song. Performers include Revs. Robert Carter (Valley, AL); Derek Dumas (Lizzieboro Baptist Church); Dexter Jordan (Center Hill Baptist); Walter Glover (Zion Hill Baptist); and James Bumpus (New fellowship Baptist). February 19. 5:00 p.m. Free.
For additional information, you may consult the theatre’s website: www.douglasstheatre.org or contact the theatre at 478-742-2000.
