Posted by | Ray Cornelius
Production is underway for a new UK musical on the life of Civil Rights icon Rosa Parks. The show, “ROSA,” is written by Victoria Gimby with music and lyrics by Stuart Matthew Price.
According to the show’s website, “ROSA” tells the compelling true life story of Rosa Parks and her journey from ‘quiet seamstress’ to the mother of the civil rights movement. By refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger in 1950’s Alabama, Parks took her place in history as an international symbol of hope that has inspired future generations to continue the fight for equality.
BlackBroadway reports that the coveted role of Parks is being played by Simbi Akande. Joining her are actors Ricardo Coke-Thomas, Sophie-Louise Dann, Jason Denton, James Gant, Cornell S. John, Abiona Omonua, Jenny Perry, Cat Simmons and Jos Slovick. Playbill also reports that “ROSA” is in workshop through August with plans to have full scale productions in London and the United States. Check out a few behind-the-scenes photos below courtesy of the show’s Facebook page:
Cat Simmons with Simbe Akande
Sophie-Louise Dann
Music and lyrics for “ROSA” are written by Stuart Matthew Price
Jason Denton
Cornell S. John