“Harriet” – An Original Play

November 15, 2008

One of the nicest things about commemorating the 150th anniversary was meeting so many people who had their own heart for the Scotts who we did not know before. Ms. Dolores Kane, founder of the ETC. Senior Theatre; wrote and directed an original play on the heart of Harriet Scott as her contribution to the anniversary. It was a delightful play based on Harriet Scott having a conversation with one of her great-great grandchildren discussing what her life was like and hearing from the key characters in the story of her life. She shared the first and most true reason for enduing their hardships for freedom, to have and keep their family together.

This courageous cause and subsequent actions borne out of the right cause, in time worked to the betterment of all people. The play was inspired by the revelation of Harriet’s grave confirmed to be in Greenwood Cemetery in February 2006. Ms. Kane felt their was a story there to be told and did her homework, producing a very educational and excellent presentation.

The location of the performance was noteworthy as well. “Harriet” was performed at the same church Harriet Scott attended during the era of their trials in St. Louis. The Central Baptist Church at 2842 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO is the descendant congregation of the 2nd African Church of the 1800s. Rev. John Anderson was their pastor and the current pastor is Rev. Dr. Robert C. Scott.

The Etc. Senior Theatre in St. Louis. MO is for individuals 55 and older who always wanted to act but probably never did. The talent was superb. Mrs. Harriet Robinson Scott was played by Jobyna Foster. Her great-great granddaughter, Lynne Madison Jackson was portrayed by actress Andrea Purnell (a younger guest cast member). We look forward to encore performances of “Harriet”!