St. Charles Public Library to host ‘Freedom Songs: The Music of Black History’
The St. Charles Public Library will host “Freedom Songs: The Music of Black History,” a theatrical performance by Bright Start Touring Theatre, on Friday, June 13.
The production explores the role of music in Black American history, from the work songs of enslaved people to the rise of ragtime, jazz, R&B, and the spirituals of the Civil Rights Movement.
The play highlights influential musicians such as Scott Joplin, Billie Holiday, and Little Richard.
Bright Star Touring Theatre, a national professional touring theater company based in Asheville, N.C., is visiting the area with their musical production of “Freedom Songs.”
This musical revue provides an energetic and engaging approach to learning about Black History. From songs that carried the secret messages needed to navigate the Underground Railroad, to the powerful anthems of the Civil Rights Movement, to the Beale Street Blues, music has long been an integral part of American history, which is celebrated in this production.
Bright Star’s professional actors/singers take audiences on a musical tour through hundreds of years of history, sampling songs that spread across centuries and continents, and explaining the history behind these famous ballads, hymns, and musical styles.
The program will begin at 1 p.m. in the Huntley Community Room of the library, 1 S. Sixth Ave. To register, call (630) 584-0076 or visit scpld.org.