Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Jubilee

Having Our Say was presented at the Jubilee Theater in downtown Fort Worth. It's an intimate setting, and perfect for this story of two sisters. Bessie (Marjorie Johnson) and Sadie (Perri Gaffney) Delaney were sisters. At age 101 and 103, they shared the first 100 years of their lives. There's a remarkable book and also this play.

Born as daughters of a former slave, they grew up in the Jim Crow South, and ultimately moved to New York, living in Harlem at a renaissance time. Well-educated, they had careers - teaching and dentistry.  Never married, they stuck together through thick and thin.

The actors gave a stunning performance as they chatted to the audience as if we were interviewing them. Bessie and Sadie welcomed us in to their living room and kitchen, telling stories, reflecting on history, and finishing each other's sentences. Having Our Say was rich in history and character. The Delaney Sisters were remarkable women who exemplified a piece of the American fabric of dreams and common sense.

14 comments:

  1. Sounds a wonderful story, Pleased you enjoyed it.

    Yvonne.

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  2. Just amazing they both lived such long and rich lives.

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  3. They sure had to see a ton in their lifetimes

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    Replies
    1. Good and bad. Stuff to make 'em mad too. But gracious ladies

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  4. It must have been such a lovely event to witness. Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Ye I enjoy live entertainment. The play was heartwarming

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  5. Hi Joanne - what an amazing play to be able to get to watch ... and their histories are extraordinary - wonderfully rich considering all things. Amazing - thanks for letting us know about them and the play - cheers Hilary

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  6. Wow! That's a long time for them both to live. I bet they have a lot of stories to tell!

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    1. It covered a lot of territory from the South to Harlem

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  7. This sounds like a fascinating history and play. Glad you enjoyed it.

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