Uncover the man behind the legend in ‘The Mountaintop’, opening February 4th at New Stage Theatre
JANS – New Stage Theatre, 1100 Carlisle St., Jackson, presents Katori Hall’s “The Mountaintop”, a powerful and thought-provoking drama that reimagines the final night of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. before his assassination.
Opening February 4 and running through February 16, “The Mountaintop” takes audiences behind the public figure to reveal a deeply human and vulnerable side of one of history’s most iconic leaders. Curtain times and dates for performances are February 4 – 8, 11, and 13 – 15 at 7:00 p.m.; February 12 at 1:00 p.m.; and February 9 & 16 at 2:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $35.00 with discounts available for students, senior citizens, military, and groups. A special Schoolfest Matinee performance is at 10:00 a.m. on February 6. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, charged by phone by calling the theatre at (601) 948-3533 Ext 223, or ordered online at www.newstagetheatre.com. For Schoolfest Matinee booking information, contact Melissa Tillman at 601-948-3533 ext. 226 or mtillman@newstagetheatre.com. Security provided and patrols during performances. Recommended for ages 14+.
Set in Room 306 of the Lorraine Motel, Dr. King, portrayed by Shabazz Green, grapples with his legacy and the weight of his leadership during a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. When a mysterious hotel maid, Camae, played by Anquanizia Hall, arrives with his coffee, their conversation sparks a journey of reflection, revelation, and connection. Blending historical fiction with elements of magical realism, “The Mountaintop” challenges the way we view not just Dr. King, but the complexities of leadership, sacrifice, and mortality.
Jumping back into the director’s seat for “The Mountaintop” is Xerron X Mingo. Having previously directed last season’s “Chicken & Biscuits” and “Sister Act Jr.”, Mingo also serves as the Education Director for New Stage Theatre and could not be more blessed to continue teaching, coaching, and mentoring. When it comes to “The Mountaintop”, “This show humanizes a lot of what ifs about a civil rights icon. It allows the audiences a chance to take what they know about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and appreciate him even more for just being human. With such a phenomenal cast and production team, audiences are sure to laugh, cry, get offended, cry, and laugh again all in one sitting! It is a roller coaster ride. Show up, hang on, and see what happens!”
Artistic Director, Francine Thomas Reynolds says, “‘The Mountaintop’ is an extraordinary contemporary play by Memphian Katori Hall. Through a gripping re-imagination of events the night before the assassination of the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the play serves to properly honor his contributions and courage. Infused with theatricality and spirituality, ‘The Mountaintop’ merges confrontation and humor to inspire a deeper look at Dr. King, his message, and ourselves.”
There will be a special preview and salon on January 30, where Director Xerron X Mingo and the cast of “The Mountaintop”, Shabazz Green (New Jersey) as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Anquanizia Hall (Meridian) as Camae, will discuss the making of the production and the highlighted themes of race, identity, leadership, and mortality. Refreshments will be served and RSVP is required. If interested, please contact Mia J. McElroy at 601-948-3533 ext. 225 or mmcelroy@newstagetheatre.com.
