Acting for the Movement

There has been much talk in the months since Barack Obama's election about what that historic event means for "the black experience" in the United States. While a sign that black Americans have indeed overcome a number of obstacles in the past century, it remains to be seen whether Obama's ascendance to the highest office in the land will be a turning point for a population that has seen much progress, yet still fights for equality in so many ways. The experiences of legendary entertainers Ruby Dee, Louis Gossett Jr. and the indomitable Della Reese reinforce this idea, and each of the three will discuss their experiences and hopes for the future of this country. More than just your run-of-the-mill vapid celebrities, these entertainers were pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement in their own way, and their experiences in paving the way for others to succeed and in the dark days after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. are the topic of the Black Academy of Arts and Letters program Pioneers: A Conversation and an Evening with Louis Gossett Jr., Ruby Dee and Della Reese. This program, held at the Dallas Convention Center Theater Complex, 650 S. Griffin St., promises an evening of inspiration and hope that transcends skin color and speaks to the experience of all Americans. Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. show are $25 to $30 and may be purchased at ticketmaster.com. For more information about the program, visit tbaal.org.
Sat., April 4, 7:30 p.m., 2009