The great history of our country, both the tragedy and the triumph, will be presented in the production of We Were There: History through the Arts. This event will take place on Friday and Saturday evenings, February 5-6, 2010, at 7 p.m. at the Blackwell Auditorium on the campus of Randolph-Macon College.  The production will present significant stories and events from our country’s history through dramatic readings, dance, poetry and song. 

This march of history will begin in song with an introduction to early African-American music and its role in the lives of slaves.  Then a look at the Emancipation Proclamation (1863) will be presented along with a personal account about one of Hanover’s own sons who served in the Union Army.  More dramatic readings and song will share the stories of several individuals who had a significant impact on the lives of African-Americans in the world of arts, music and sports. After exploring the American Civil Rights movement and the effect Motown had on our country’s people, the production will look at today and what the future may hold for our country.

The event will be moderated by the renowned local actor, Tony Cosby. Residents of Ashland and Hanover County will also participate as storytellers and presenters.  The strong voices of the Ashland Community Chorus, under the sterling direction of Lenora Davis, will move us with stories told in song.

This event, as part of Ashland’s Black History Month celebration, is sponsored by the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, the Hanover-Ashland AARP Chapter, Randolph-Macon College, and the Town of Ashland.

Admission to the event is free to adults and children, but donations are appreciated and may be made at the door.

For further information contact The Hanover Arts and Activities Center at (804) 798-2728. www.hanoverarts.org .