Return to the Lyceum: Two important Black voices from our past

Rev. Mahlon Van Horne of Newport often opened speaking programs in Rhode Island that featured Frederick Douglass. Ricardo Pitts-Wiley of Mixed Magic Theatre (Pawtucket, RI) portrays Rev. Van Horne delivering his speech “The Negro in Rhode Island: Past, Present and Future.” Rev. Van Horne was a much respected leader of the Black community in Newport, whose leadership led him on to a political career, in addition to his philanthropy.

The second half of the show will be Frederick Douglass portrayed by Mr. Freeman T. Freeman reciting from Douglass’ lecture on photography “Pictures and Progress” (1865). Douglass’ interest in photography was integral to his brilliance on the stage, where he was one of the most sought after orators of the day. He was also the most photographed individual of his period as well. Orated in period dress by Mr. Freeman presented along with the projected record of all of Douglass’ carefully considered portraits presented in chronological order.

Pictured above: Rev. Mahlon Van Horne (right) and Frederick Douglass (left)

This WFAC program is part of exhibition related programming presented by WaterFire Providence in association with the current exhibition at the WaterFire Arts Center, “EYE TO EYE Photographs and Projects MARY BETH MEEHAN” and “ANNYE RAYE PITTS: WITNESS” an installation by Mary Beth Meehan and Jonathan Pitts-Wiley, open until August 22, 2021. For a full listing of programming visit, waterfire.org/eyetoteye-programming.

This program is funded in part by the Rhode Island Foundation.

Presented in cooperation with Leadership Rhode Island.

Register at the link below.