A loosely autobiographical play, \u201cThe River Niger\u201d was originally performed by the Negro Ensemble Company and winner of the Tony Award as Best Play of the season.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe River Niger\u201d is a stirring drama about a Harlem family whose son returns from the Air Force not the hero anticipated.\u00a0 His association with a militant group abroad creates consequences that strongly affect the family dynamic.<\/p>\n

The play depicts a timeless fight in the family\u2019s pursuit of the American Dream.<\/p>\n

The play is originally set in 1976, but is being presented in present day with a contemporary twist.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019The River Niger\u2019 is a play that highlights the dynamics and need for self-expression and self-identity which are constant battlefields of true understanding and expression,\u201d said Yohance Myles, assistant professor in the Department of Speech Communications and Theatre, and director of the play.<\/p>\n

Myles added: \u201cWe discover the challenges of the meaning to be alive and the pursuit of happiness through family, love, careers, and the journey through life.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe River Niger\u201d explores topics in the areas of: Air Force training, marriage, acceptance, hope, greed, education, war symbolism, and racial barriers for African-Americans in America.<\/p>\n

\u201cJackson State\u2019s Theatre Department continues to strive for excellence in creating honest, inspiring, thought provoking, and educational productions for our students and surrounding communities to promote growth and constant support for the performing arts,\u201d said Myles.<\/p>\n

The play runs Feb. 23-27 at 7 p.m. nightly, with a 3 p.m. Sunday matinee. Tickets are $5 for students and senior adults\/ $10 for general admission.<\/p>\n

For more information call the Box Office at 601-979-2426\/601-979-5956 (M-F 12-5 p.m.), located in the Rose McCoy lobby, or Dr. Bodie-Smith (Promotions & Marketing) at 601-979-4309. You can also visit the website at 10.14.12.245\/speechandtheatre and click on Box Office.\u00a0 Tickets are now available for sale online.<\/p>\n

\n<\/strong><\/div>\n\n
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