Productions

Elizabeth A Woman of Color { 2020 }

Gladys DeVane as Elizabeth. Elizabeth: A Woman of Color premiered in February 2020 at the Monroe County History Center.

“As I held on to d’at log I couldn’t hear nothin’ but my heart beatin’.” Gladys—ass Elizabeth—clings to a tree limb as she floats down the river in her escape to freedom.

Gladys Devane as Elizabeth.

Elizabeth: A Woman of Color depicts a precedent setting court case in Indiana’s history where an indentured servant petitioned the court for her freedom and won. In this one woman piece, Gladys Devane (the author) plays the character of Elizabeth as well as up to 6 other characters.

Sentences: From the Pen to the Page { 2019 }

Based on the writings of inmate Philip Stroud and writer/activist Glenda Breeden, Sentences explores the effects of mass incarceration and the trauma of the death penalty. Brought to life through a mixed media performance of spoken word, poetry, and song.

Stories of Monroe { 2018 }

Stories of Monroe, performed in 2018, was a follow-up to Resilience; Indiana’s Untold Story. This original piece tackles the struggles and stories of African Americans in Monroe County along with their white counterparts.

Resilience: Indiana's Untold Story { 2016 }

Written to commemorate Indiana’s Bicentennial, this original play premiered in October 2016. Inspired by historical events, these stories of tragedy and triumph chronicle African Americans’ journey throughout Indiana’s 200-year history. Traditional storytelling along with spoken word and song were combined to create unforgettable textures and a unique theatrical experience.