Ford's Theater Presents: A Preview Reading of The American Five
August 23 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Experience the powerful story behind one of the most iconic speeches in American history during an exclusive preview reading of The American Five, a new play from Ford’s Theatre presented in the intimate Library at Salamander Middleburg. Before its official world premiere in Washington, D.C., witness this compelling theatrical work that explores the extraordinary minds who shaped the March on Washington and the “I Have a Dream” speech.
Written by Chess Jakobs and directed by Aaron Posner, The American Five follows Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King, Bayard Rustin, Stanley Levison and Clarence B. Jones as they navigate surveillance, risk and doubt to craft a message that would move a nation. With urgency and insight, this reading pulls back the curtain on the humanity, strategy and sacrifice behind a pivotal civil rights milestone.
The evening features performances by Ro Boddie (Martin), Renea S. Brown (Coretta), Stephen Conrad Moore (Bayard), Aaron Bliden (Stanley), and Yao Dogbe (Clarence)—all making their Ford’s Theatre debut.
Following the reading, enjoy an engaging Q&A with the playwright and director as we explore how five voices helped shape the soul of a nation.
Food, wine, and passed hors d’oeuvres will be provided throughout the event.
165.00 per guest | Reservations required.