Theatre Tuscaloosa Celebrates 2019 Black History Month by Presenting “Crowns: A Gospel Musical”

February 8, 2019 – In celebration of Black History Month, Theatre Tuscaloosa presents “Crowns: A Gospel Musical” February 15-24, 2019, in the Bean-Brown Theatre on the Martin Campus of Shelton State Community College (9500 Old Greensboro Road).

In this moving and celebratory musical play, the tradition of hats is traced back to African rituals, biblical text, and forward to current fashion. When a Brooklyn teen goes to live with her grandmother in South Carolina after the death of her brother, she discovers the beauty, ceremony, and symbolism of her triumphant, hat-wearing Southern sisters.

The all-African-American cast of “Crowns” is led by guest director Mark B. Moore. A Huntsville native, Moore has directed numerous productions in North Alabama including: “The Watsons Go To Birmingham,” “Daddy’s Dyin’: Who’s Got the Will?,” “Deathtrap,” “Sordid Lives,” and “The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee.”

“’Crowns’ is such an entertaining and beautiful musical,” said Moore. “I’m so honored to work with the amazing crew and cast. Come hear these queens recount the history of the women in their lives that will remind us of matriarchs from our pasts.”

The cast includes Dorcas “DC” Britford, LaBorn Brown, Kenyatta “YaYa” Browne, Catherine Doughty-Walker, Ashley Jones, Crystal Lassiter, Zoë Lassiter, and Norquina “Q” Rieves.

“Crowns” was adapted for the stage by Regina Taylor, based on the book by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry. The production team includes Mark B. Moore (director and choreographer), Luvada Harrison (musical director), Richard Dunham (scenic and lighting designer), Jeanette Waterman (costume designer), and Ashlyn Lambert (stage manager).

Theatre Tuscaloosa’s 2018-2019 season is supported by Shelton State Community College, the City of Tuscaloosa, the Alabama State Council on the Arts, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc., WVUA23, and Tuscaloosa Radio. “Crowns” is sponsored by Alabama Public Radio and TotalCom Marketing.

“Crowns” will be presented February 15-24, 2019, with performances at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Fridays, and Saturday, February 16. Matinee performances will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sundays, Wednesday, and Saturday, February 23. A pay-what-you-can final dress rehearsal will be presented on Thursday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m., all proceeds of which will benefit the Charlie Dennis Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Tickets are $24 for adults, $20 for seniors and members of the military, and $16 for students and children. Special rates are available in advance for groups of 10 or more.

Tickets and more information are available at www.theatretusc.com or 205.391.2277.