Arts, Dining & Entertainment

“Zora” explores the Harlem Renaissance through the eyes of one important woman

Friday, Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. — RANDOLPH — The American Place Theatre brings their Literature to Life stage presentation of “Zora” to Chandler Music Hall in Randolph on Friday morning, Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. This is this season’s first event of Chandler Center for the Arts’  Daytime Performance Series, and takes place in the Esther Mesh Room of the Upper Gallery.

Zora Neale Hurston was one of the most important and celebrated figures to emerge from the Harlem Renaissance. Outspoken, spirited and gifted, Ms. Hurston was a prolific African-American writer of the 1930’s, her books defining the black American experience. In this dramatic biography, Zora invites the audience into her exemplary life, rich with folklore, intimate portraits of her contemporaries, and excerpts from her significant body of literary work.

The American Place Theatre’s Literature to Life presentation of “Zora,” adapted from the original theatrical biography by Laurence Holder, captures the extraordinary spirit of the Queen of the Harlem Renaissance. Incorporating music from the era and some of Ms. Hurston’s southern folklore, the story focuses on Zora’s battle to preserve her people’s culture and to live an authentic life against all odds.

Surrounded by a pre- and post-show interactive discussion, the audience will explore themes including racism and the Harlem Renaissance. The presentation includes a 15-minute pre-show interactive discussion and a one-hour performance, followed by a 15-minute post-show discussion.

This presentation is designed for students grades 7 through 12, but homeschoolers and the general public of all age levels are welcome as well.

For tickets, email emily@chandler-arts.org. Chandler is fully handicapped accessible.

For more info, call 802-431-0204.

Photo courtesy of Chandler Center For the Arts

“Zora” is the first of Chandler’s Daytime Performance Series events, coming to the stage Oct. 17.

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