ROSA, A TRIBUTE TO ROSA PARKS to Play Ware Center, 2/18

The Ware Center has established a tradition of presenting stunning one-person theatrical pieces - professional showcases that not only entertain but enlighten its audiences. Last year the shows on Harriet Tubman, C.S. Lewis and five characters from the battle of Gettysburg sold-out, brought the audience to its feet and profoundly affected the way we look at life.

Now, on Tuesday, February 18 at 7:30 PM, The Ware Center | Millersville University presents its second in a series of four one person shows: "Rosa, A Tribute to Rosa Parks," starring Jessica Townsend and directed by Barry Scott. "Rosa" is packaged by JRA Artists out of New York -- the same company that brought the other sold-out shows to the Ware Center stage.

This powerful play, based on the prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, is produced by The American Negro Playwright Theatre from Nashville, TN and it comes to the Ware Center for one night only. ANPT is a non-profit entity with a mission to sustain the most visible and viable professional African American Theatre organization in America devoted to outreach, education and empowerment through the arts.

In 1955, pride was a dangerous thing for blacks to have. With the threat of violence, brutality and death, it was obvious why most didn't speak out. But on December 1st of that year, Rosa Parks - in Montgomery Alabama -- refused to give up her seat on the bus. By making what now seems like a logical and simple decision to keep her seat, she was actually taking a stand against racial segregation that set into motion a boycott of the bus transportation system. In doing so, she changed the course of American history.

This gripping award-winning, one-woman show delves into the story behind the prominent figure in the Freedom Movement whose legacy still lives on today, giving the audience a look into the faith behind and the courage of Mrs. Parks' inciting incident and the events that followed thereafter. You WILL be moved to tears.

"Rosa" is scheduled at the Ware Center, 42 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA on Wednesday, February 19 at 7:30 PM. Discount parking passes are available for the Prince Street Garage at the corner of North Prince and West Orange and the Hager Parking lot across the street. The Ware Center is completely handicapped accessible.

Upcoming one person shows include Soap Opera art Tom Wiggins in "The Life & Times of Thaddeus Stevens" on March 20 and Ron Jewell in "Mark Twain at Large" on April 12 - both at 7:30 PM at the Ware Center. Tickets are on sale for all three now.

The theatrical events are sponsored by Rodgers & Associates, Millersville University, Ann B. Barshinger, Aussie and the Fox, Fine Living Lancaster, Hagelgans & Veronis, Dr. Mary Kearns & Dr. Jon Walker and Peggy Neff.

Tickets cost $18 | $15 seniors |$5 students. All seating is reserved. Tickets may be purchased by calling 717-872-3811 or 717-871-2308, Online at www.artsmu.com or in person at the Ware Center Box Office (42 N. Prince St., Lancaster) or the SMC Building on Millersville University's campus. If tickets are still available, tickets may be purchased the day of the show, one hour prior to the performance.

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