About

Laurel Ridge Community College, Belle Grove Plantation, and Selah Theatre Project are proud to present the world premiere of "When a Trumpet Cries," an original play by local playwright Bleu Do’zia. This compelling new work offers a powerful and unexpected portrayal of Abba, a woman enslaved by the Hite family at Belle Grove, challenging audience expectations and prompting a crucial reevaluation of historical narratives.

"When a Trumpet Cries" delves into the complexities of Abba’s life, moving beyond conventional depictions to reveal a nuanced and multifaceted individual. Playwright Bleu Do’zia navigates the delicate and vital task of authentically conveying Abba’s story with sensitivity and depth. Adding another layer to the creative process, the play also explores the dynamic between Bleu and her dramaturg, Joanna, as they work to bring this important story to the stage under the pressure of a looming deadline.

Audiences are invited to witness this powerful theatrical experience at the William McCoy Theater in Smith Hall at Laurel Ridge Community College. Performances will run for two weekends:
Friday, June 13 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, June 14 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, June 15 at 2:00 PM
Friday, June 20 at 7:00 PM (Pay What You Can)
Saturday, June 21 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, June 22 at 2:00 PM

Tickets for all performances are $15 and can be purchased at the door or at selahtheatreproject.org/season. The performance on Friday, June 20, is a "Pay What You Can" night, offering accessibility to all members of the community.

In a unique opportunity for deeper engagement, there will be a post-show discussion with playwright Bleu Do’zia and the cast following each performance. This will provide a space for audience members to explore the themes of the play and engage in meaningful dialogue.

"When a Trumpet Cries" is a collaborative partnership between Bleu Do’zia, Belle Grove Plantation, Laurel Ridge Community College, and Selah Theatre Project, highlighting a shared commitment to exploring and understanding the full spectrum of our history through the power of theatre. This production promises to be a thought-provoking and moving theatrical event that encourages reflection and conversation. Read more about Abba's story at https://www.bellegrove.org/images/uploads/Abba.pdf .

This project is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts, Crescent Cities Charities, and private donors.