Jan. 23 performance is 'Pay What You Can' admission
A woman runs across campus, running late to her class. However, when she arrives, the only one there is the professor. With the opportunity to take an independent study, both the student and professor gain the opportunity to learn from each other.
Southeast Texas Stages presents “Thurgood and Me,” through Feb. 1. In the play, opinionated and determined Nia Coleridge Jackson (Justice Morrow) is the only student taking American History for Non-Majors with American history professor, W.L. Romano (John Manfredi). Nia needs this course to graduate, and without it, Romano could lose his job.
For them both to benefit, Romano suggests taking on an independent study about not just American history, but Black American history. In this independent course, Romano is determined to rise to the occasion to dive deep into the legacy of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.
The works of the Civil Rights leader and first African American Supreme Court Justice challenges past and present American socio-political culture just as Nia challenges Romano.
Written by James Bowen and Manfredi, “Thurgood & Me” makes a bold statement and is not afraid to confront topics that are taboo involving American history and, more specifically, Black American History.
Morrow’s Nia is a refreshing reflection of the lifestyle of a typical college student; complicated and authentic. Manfredi’s Romano brings the audience in with an earnest approach and creates a wonderful connection.
The story integrates history and performance with ease while taking the audience through the lived experiences of both Nia and Romano, bringing home the idea of, “The more you know, the more power you’ll have.”
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m., Jan. 23, 24, 25, 31 and Feb 1, with a matinee at 2 p.m., Jan. 25.
The Thursday, Jan. 23 show is a “Pay What You Can performance.” Southeast Texas Stages is located at 4155 Laurel Ave. In Beaumont, TX. For tickets, visit setxs.org.