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‘Biddy Mason’ brings true story of extraordinary LA citizen to life
Entertainment May 09, 2024
Julian Tushabe and Mary Hill in “Biddy Mason.” | Photo by Paul Kennedy
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The Fountain Theatre’s “Fountain for Youth” arts education wing has joined forces with Inner-City Arts, The Autry Museum of the American West and CounterBalance Theater to present “Biddy Mason,” a theatrical blend of video projection, music, song, movement and dramatic storytelling that brings the inspiring true story of an extraordinary Los Angeles citizen to life.
Based on a short story by Dana Johnson and adapted and directed by Annie Loui, “Biddy Mason” dramatizes the remarkable, little-known story of Bridget “Biddy” Mason who, born enslaved, went on to become one of the first prominent citizens and landowners in Los Angeles. After marching 1,700 miles on foot alongside her owner’s wagon train from Mississippi to California, Mason petitioned for and won her freedom in court. Saving the money she earned as a midwife and nurse, she transformed herself into a successful businesswoman and philanthropist who built schools, fed the poor, and helped launch the First AME Church.
“Biddy Mason’s life unfolds from enslavement to entrepreneurship, inspiring audiences young and old,” says Loui. “Her tale must be told — particularly to inner-city young people, who feel empowered watching an exceptional woman of color rise from hopelessness and poverty to become a leading citizen of Los Angeles. This production will be the first live, professional performance of a theatrical work for many inner-city students. They will remember this experience all their lives.”
Ten student performances will take place May 20 through May 24 followed by two public performances for adults on May 31 and June 1 each at 8 p.m. Tickets to public performances are $20. The Rosenthal Theatre at Inner-City Arts is located at 720 Kohler St., Los Angeles, CA 90021. Parking is free in the lot across the street from the theater, and there is ample street parking. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (213) 627-9621 or go to inner-cityarts.org/biddymason.
