Harriet Tubman Performance Coming to Tibbits

Children in Branch County will have an opportunity to see first-hand why Harriet Tubman deserves to be the new face of the twenty-dollar bill when acclaimed storyteller, Rosie Chapman performs a first-person interpretation of the famous heroine at Tibbits on May 17.

Through audience participation, Chapman combines education and entertainment to help share the story of Harriet Tubman who was born into slavery in 1822. After two failed attempts, Tubman escaped slavery at the age of 27 by using a network of safe houses known as the Underground Railroad. Despite the dangers, Tubman returned south numerous times to lead family and friends on the long, dangerous journey north eventually rescuing about 70 slaves.   Tubman was physically small, but tough. When escaping slaves became discouraged along the route and wanted to turn back Tubman is famous for pointing her pistol at them and commanding them to, “Move on or die!”

The show will be presented at 9:30 a.m. and the public is welcome to attend. Tickets are $2 per person and will be available at the door.  A second show may be added in the afternoon if there is enough demand. Check the Tibbits website for the most up-to-date performance schedule. Schools already registered for the program include Legg Middle School, St. Mary’s School, Carlin Park Elementary, and St. Charles Borromeo.

For the past 20 years, Chapman has graced audiences in Europe, Australia, Canada and all over the United States. Her one woman shows of Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King and others are described as unforgettable.

Asama Coldwater Manufacturing has teamed with Tibbits to help the theatre present its school performance series. In addition to Rosie Chapman on May 17, high school students will see a Michigan Shakespeare Festival’s presentation of “Romeo and Juliet,” on May 24. These programs are also funded with support from the Michigan Humanities Council Touring Arts program and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

For more information contact Tibbits at 517-278-6029. Arrangements for groups should be made in advance as some performances fill up.