CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR next up for GroundWorks Theatre at Darkhorse

The Nashville premiere of Michael Murphy's The Conscientious Objector is next up for GroundWorks Theatre, running April 30-May 8 at the Darkhorse Theater. A joint production with Destiny Theatre Experience, the play is directed by Shawn Whitsell.

Murphy's play tells the story of DR. Martin Luther King Jr., in early 1967, informing his advisers that he intended to play a major role in the anti-war movement, advocating immediate withdrawal of all U.S. troops from Vietnam. No major figure of King's stature had yet been willing to take such a dramatic stand, even those thought to oppose the war, such as Democratic Senators Robert F. Kennedy and George McGovern.

King knew he would be turning past allies like President LynDon Johnson into powerful enemies and reviving the animus of old enemies as well. King's inner circle feared he would trigger a political backlash that could undo the progress made in civil rights. The Conscientious Objector draws upon the historical record, including the FBI's surveillance and the White House's infamous secret telephone recordings.

Whitsell directs a veteran ensemble cast at Darkhorse Theater. The production runs from April 30 to May 8, with 7:30 p.m. performances every night but Sunday and Monday. There will be a 2:30 p.m. matinee on Sunday, May 2. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors. All tickets for Tuesday night's show are $10.

Tickets and information available at www.groundworkstheatre.com, or call (615) 262-5485 for reservations.