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An adaptation of Jane Kristof’s novel “Steal Away Home” was recently performed at Bastrop Opera House, and it couldn’t have come at a more fitting time.
The play had its debut on Friday, Feb. 10, and another production ensued the following night. Director Dock Jackson was delighted to have the opportunity to tell this story during Black History Month, but he also believes this story is always relevant.
“I annually try to utilize the arts as a teaching experience to remind us all of the struggles of the African-American culture,” Jackson said. “Searching for projects that reflect this experience are my way of educating our youth and others of this part of our history and culture. Although I have been afforded the opportunity to present this play during Black History Month, ‘Steal Away Home’ is a part of American history and would be appropriate at any time.”
“Steal Away Home” tells the saga of two young slave boys who travel the underground railroad on a quest to freedom and reunite with their parents. Their journey starts in South Carolina, and they must make it to Philadelphia where their freed father resides. They receive help from various people, both black and white, and evade many dangers along the way.
Playing the leading roles were Oliver Von, Leovani Gottschall, Rev. Arthur Banks and Cheryl Lee. The choir, consisting of Rev. Luchus McShan, Delois Baker, Judy Caro, Rose Clemons, Linda Greene, Alaina Howard, Dara V. Lacy, Dianne Mills, Sandra Moore and Kay Revetta, along with musical director Barbara Clemons, were integral towards the overall emotion of the show.
Jackson embraces the immersion into the dark world of slavery, despite the pain and anguish associated with this time period.
“Mentally, it is cleansing to become immersed in this period of our history,” Jackson said. “With the many reversals of laws and attempts today to erase the history of African-Americans, I embrace the use of the arts to reinforce the history and take pride in the positive feedback I have received by presenting theatre and music pieces like ‘Steal Away Home.’”
Jackson was introduced to this story many years ago, acting in the play as part of the University of Texas’ Department of Theatre and Dance. He also directed and acted in the play 35 years ago at the Bastrop Opera House. Jackson spoke about the ways in which “Steal Away Home” still inspires him today.
“The story is one that depicts the struggle of people enslaved in the South along with their efforts to attain freedom, equality and justice on the Underground Railroad,” Jackson said. “The play illustrates human kindness and empathy by showing folks of all races who helped along the way. These themes are very similar to the issues we face today.”
“Steal Away Home" will be performed at Bastrop Opera House three more times Feb. 17-19. To purchase tickets, visit https://bohtickets.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200432856.
