Black History Program - February 21, 2008
This year's theme was "Imagine Me," the title of a gospel song by Kirk Franklin. The song was performed near the end of the evening program by the High School Chamber Choir who did a wonderful job. A key phrase in the song is "Imagine me, being free, trusting You totally." God has been at the center of the African American struggle for racial equality, from slavery to the present, so the Committee wanted to keep God at the forefront of its production. It was an highly informative evening full of laughs and tears.
The production was loosely based on a book, and later movie, entitled "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman." It's a story about a 110 year old former slave who tells a reporter at the peak of the Civil Rights Movement how she endured slavery, was freed, and then endured discrimination even after she was freed. The Committee's production is set in the present day with grandparents telling their family history to their grandchildren. As the story was being told the cast members highlighted certain important times within history through short skits. The closing remarks of teacher, Oliver Hersey, tied the program together and left us with a feeling of hope for the future and gratitude for God's continuing patience and presence during difficult times. The committee also performed shortened versions of the program during elementary, middle school and high school chapels throughout the month. (Click here for a copy of the program)
Cast members included students from the elementary, middle school and high schools, in addition to an appearance by the High School Chamber Choir and the Middle School Girls' Choir. The Middle School Girls' Choir performed two songs that fit right in with the story as it unfolded. The audience was also visited by important people in African American history who, through short monologues, told their own individual story.
Throughout the month, as another means to educate, the committee organized an ongoing contest entitled "Mystery Person of the Week." Stay tuned to this page for information about this year's contest, winners and gifts awarded.
DVD's (and VHS tapes) for the last 3 years' performances are available for sale in the elementary/middle school office and the high school office. Or, click on the link below to print an order form. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the work of the Committee - to continue to educate and enlighten the entire Timothy Christian community about a significant part of American history and to celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans.
Black History Program Order Form