Performance Dates
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Frederick Douglass ignited the flame of a freedom movement that still burns today. Charles Randolph-Wright (Arena’s Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story, Broadway’s Motown the Musical) returns to Arena Stage with a groundbreaking musical powered by Douglass’ own speeches and writings. Coupled with soaring new melodies and an original script from Grammy Award-winning songwriter Marcus Hummon and Randolph-Wright, Douglass rises as a fierce abolitionist and distinguished orator. Filled with electrifying new songs including “What Does Freedom Look Like,” “We Need a Fire” and “A More Perfect Union,” this world premiere celebrates the revolutionary legacy of one of history’s first freedom fighters, whose fire is needed now more than ever.
Cast
Performer
Role
Frederick Douglass
Anna Murray Douglass
Abraham Lincoln / Garrison
John Brown / Ensemble
Ensemble / Partial Swing / u/s Abraham Lincoln / Garrison / John Brown
Sally / Ensemble / u/s Anna Murray Douglass
Gabe / Ensemble / u/s Frederick Douglass
Bill / Garnett / Ensemble / Dance Captain
Demby / Ensemble
Betsey Bailey / Elizabeth Keckley / Ensemble
Ensemble / Partial Swing
Ensemble / Partial Swing / u/s Betsey Bailey / Elizabeth Keckley
Reverend Gore / Edward Covey / Sec. Seward / Ensemble
Mary Todd / Ensemble
Ensemble / Partial Swing
Creative Team
Playwright
Director
Set Designer
Costume Designer
Choreographer for musicals
Musical Director
Sound Designer
Lighting Designer