EIU Media Relations

EIU to host one-man play 1619: The Journey of a People, February 1

Show at near capacity, few spots remain for interested attendees

[IAN PALACIOS CONTRIBUTED TO THIS ARTICLE]

(Charleston, IL) – Eastern Illinois University’s Academy of Lifelong Learning will host a one-man play centered on the role of 20 enslaved Africans in Jamestown, Virginia Thursday, February 1.

1619: The Journey of a People, seeks to explain present-day America by narrating the historical march towards freedom and equality, starting in American slavery and passing through current activism for social justice.

On August 20, 1619, 20 enslaved Africans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia. The 400-year journey that followed would change a nation and the world. Featuring playwright, professor, and performer Ted Williams III, this show packs generations of history into an abridged performance. 1619: The Journey of a People commemorates the struggles, recognizes the heroes, and critically analyzes the American journey towards freedom and equality. From the beginning of American slavery to the Reconstruction, the Great Migration, the Civil Rights Era, and modern movements for justice, Williams uses history to explain America’s current reality.

Those interested in seeing Ted Williams III perform this piece can sign up online for free at go.eiu.edu/1619/. 1619: The Journey of a People will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Lumpkin Hall Room 2030, on campus at 600 Lincoln Avenue, Charleston.

EIU's Academy of Lifelong Learning is aimed at helping community members learn, think, and grow through new opportunities. A full catalog of Academy offerings and registration opportunities is available in the Academy’s digital Community Program Guide at go.eiu.edu/ProgramGuide. For additional information on EIU's Academy of Lifelong Learning, contact Academy director Daniel Douglas at (217) 581-7415 or email dadouglas@eiu.edu.

EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, or any of EIU’s other community-based services and opportunities, visit eiu.edu or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.