Henderson State University Theatre will present the Arkansas premiere of a new American play, Alabama Story, by Kenneth Jones. Six performances are scheduled for 7:30 pm on Feb. 20, 21, 22, 24, 27 and 28, in the Arkansas Hall Studio Theatre. A reception will follow the opening performance.

The state librarian of Alabama finds her life and livelihood at risk when a controversial children’s book crosses her desk in 1959 Montgomery. The innocent tale of a white rabbit marrying a black rabbit is angering segregationist politicians as the civil rights movement is blossoming. But will Emily Reed give in to demands to have the book burned? Meet history’s forgotten hero of free expression in the fact-inspired, highly theatrical new American play brimming with humor, heartbreak and hope.

The cast of Alabama Story includes:  Dr. Marc Miller, dean of Henderson’s College of Business, along with students Brandon Curtis of West Memphis, Natalie Gray of Hot Springs, Adrian Hinojosa of Hot Springs, Savannah Price of Bryant, and Ethan Schmidt of St. Louis, Missouri. 

The play is under the direction of William Henshaw. Scenic design is by Douglas Gilpin. Student designers include: Eric Cox, lighting; Taylor Embree, costumes and makeup; and Trey Smith, sound. The stage manager is Elizabeth Reaves.

 The HSU Theatre Box Office in Arkansas Hall will be open for advance ticket sales from 1-4 pm beginning Monday, Febr. 17. All seats are reserved. Admission is $10 or free with an HSU student ID, courtesy of the Student Activities Board. 

For more information or reservations, call 230-5291, or e-mail [email protected].