Posted by | Ray Cornelius
Media personality Tavis Smiley is bringing his new multi-media production “Death Of A King” to Atlanta’s Cobb Energy Centre on Monday, April 2, 2018. The presentation will commemorate the upcoming 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s death, in-correlation with his New York Times best-seller, Death of A King: The Real Story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Final Year.
“Death Of A King: A Live Theatrical Experience (DEATH OF A KING)”, sponsored by Walmart, brings together elements of visual imagery and live music with eloquent prose, declaring the truth of the impact that one man’s integrity and strong faith in humanity had on the American people, and people across the globe– a truth as timely today as it was 50 years ago. Smiley narrates this joyful tribute that tells the little-known story of Dr. King’s final year. Against all the odds and with his popularity in deep decline, King summoned the courage, conviction, commitment and character, to bring a message of peace, equality and justice to a bitterly divided nation. “My study of King’s pivotal role in the history of this country has never stopped. Over the years, I have spoken with his most important critics, chroniclers, and defenders,” states Smiley. “I was privileged to enjoy a rewarding friendship with Coretta Scott King, whom I interviewed many times.”
After decades of study, Smiley believes King has been misunderstood for many years, as he states, “I further believe that misunderstanding is robbing us of the essence of his character and crusade. Ironically, his martyrdom has undermined his message.” With the current political climate, Smiley aims for DEATH OF A KING to help reunite America. “DEATH OF A KING represents a narrative shift that’s not just about the normal discussion of left versus right and conservative versus liberal, but really a reset of our deepest values,” states Smiley. “Fifty years after King’s death, the issues of racism, poverty, and the inherent immorality of this nation’s unchecked militarism are more pressing than ever. And if, as we relive these last excruciating months in his life, we are made to understand that his mission remains unfulfilled— that the causes for which he gave his life continue to demand the immediate attention of our hearts and minds—then the purpose of this production will be fulfilled.”
Joining Smiley will be renowned jazz pianist and composer, Marcus Roberts (the genius of modern piano) performing original compositions, and Tony Award-winning Broadway and film director Kenny Leon (A Raisin In The Sun, The Mountaintop, August Wilson’s Fences) who will serve as Creative Consultant for this production. Tickets for the Atlanta show, will go on sale on Friday, November 3, 2017, at 10am.
Click here to see the other cities where “Death Of A King” will play.
Photo Credit: DeathOfAKingTour.com
