Education Outreach
So, to continue our mission, Evolution Theatre Company has established a “edu-tainment” program... education throught entertainment... for Columbus-area schools! To celebrate Black History Month, Evolution Theatre Company will present Oh Freedom, which explores African American culture from pre-slavery to the present time. Oh Freedom features two singing-actors and a pianist on a dramatic and musical journey through Social Studies content areas such as the Middle Passage, the Underground Railroad, the Abolitionist Movement, the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, Reconstruction, the Harlem Renaissance, the Civil Rights Movement and Modern Day.
Education, the most important piece of the puzzle.
Evolution Theatre Company believes that education is one of the strongest allies we have to make this a better world. Through education we can combat hate, fear, prejudice, intolerance and promote diversity, understand, compassion and acceptance. And what better way to educate than through entertainment!
The first phase of our education through entertainment initiative is:
Oh Freedom, A Musical
Oh Freedom will be available February 10-24, 2012.
Oh Freedom features many songs that connect with Ohio State Standards Music Content and served as inspiration and hope for African Americans: Follow the Drinking Gourd, code songs such as Wade in the Water and The Gospel Train’s a Comin’ songs of Emancipation such as Slavery Chain Done Broke at last, and music of the Harlem Renaissance: I, too, sing America taken from the poem by Langston Hughes and set to music by composer Margaret Bonds and the music of George Gershwin who was inspired by African American culture. Oh Freedom ends with Lift Every Voice and Sing which has become known as the “Negro National Anthem.” Oh Freedom also presents poetry and speeches from important figures associated with the African American struggle.
Oh Freedom also focuses on specific historical events in Ohio including the importance of the Ohio River, the Underground Railroad and its connections to Central Ohio and important figures in African American history with Ohio roots.
The Oh Freedom Study Guide expands on the historical and musical elements of each period and will be available in November 2011.
The Oh Freedom study guide connects directly to Ohio State Content Standards in Social Studies, English/Language Arts, Music and Theatre.
Available dates are Monday through Friday, beginning Friday, February 10, 2012 through Friday, February 24, 2012. Performing slots are filled on a first come, first served basis.
The cost for Oh Freedom is $350.00 per performance. Performances of Oh Freedom require a tuned piano and two microphones.
Book your performance now by calling 614-233-1124, emailing eric@evolutiontheatre.org or by completing the online reservation form below.
