Southern Rep Theatre to Present SONG OF A MAN COMING THROUGH

Southern Rep Theatre is pleased to announce the world premiere of SONG OF A MAN COMING THROUGH, which tells the true story of Earnest Knighton Jr., who turned his journey through death row at Angola into a transformative experience for himself and the community that gathered around him.

"At the heart of Earnest's particular journey is a universal message about the human capacity for change even in the worst of circumstances. We've worked to turn a true story into a theatrical experience that will be emotionally compelling, intellectually engaging, and even inspiring for audiences," said co-playwright Andrew Doss.

SONG OF A MAN COMING THROUGH is drawn from the intense firsthand accounts of Bishop Joe Morris Doss and the other members of Mr. Knighton's legal team. Knighton asked that his story be told, and now, 30 years later, Bishop Doss and his son Andrew Doss have written the play that fulfills this request.

"Earnest reshaped the way we came to see the world and we want to share his message of hope and possibility with the public," said co-playwright Bishop Joe Doss.

Audiences will be immersed in the intensity of Earnest's journey and transformation, as well as the essence of the culture surrounding the story. The play not only has a powerful message, but also works to capture the spirit of New Orleans.

According to Director Aimée Hayes, this performance tells this important message in an unexpected way. "I thought I would read an overly familiar story of redemption but SONG OF A MAN COMING THROUGH is so much more than that. Its characters, its joyful exuberance, and its commitment to dealing with humankind's purpose is theatrically unique and demands to be experienced," said Hayes.

An all-star cast includes Robert Diago DoQui as Earnest Knighton Jr; Mike Harkins, John Neisler and Cecile Monteyne as the priest, lawyer and paralegal who became his greatest advocates; and Lance E. Nichols in a standout role as Earnest's cellmate. Samantha Beaulieu, Ian Hoch, Mark Burton and David Sellers round out this powerful ensemble of New Orleans actors. Musicians Phillip Manuel, Brittney James, and Barbara Shorts lend their voices to the production.

SONG OF A MAN COMING THROUGH will open on Saturday, November 7, 2015 and will run in a limited engagement Thursdays through Sundays until Saturday, November 21 at First Grace United Methodist Church (3401 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119).

In a spirit of celebration, Southern Rep invites audiences to arrive early for pre-show festivities featuring food and drink for sale and music, including traditional spirituals and original music by composer Brendan Connelly.

Discounted preview performances run Wednesday, November 4 to Friday, November 6 and include benefits for community partners. (See listing details below.)

Tickets and information are available at the Southern Rep Theatre Box Office: (504) 522-6545or www.southernrep.com/plays/song-of-a-man-coming-through/.

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