Local Women Leaders Set for Conversations Alongside RLT's GRACE FOR PRESIDENT

During the upcoming run of "Grace for President" at the North Carolina Museum of History, Raleigh Little Theatre will host a series of conversations with local women leaders.

The play is based on the book by Kelly S. DiPucchio, with illustrations by Leuyen Pham. The book, music, and lyrics for this production are by Joan Cushing.

"I believe this experience is particularly important for low-income girls and girls of color because we need to be proactive about encouraging them to envision themselves in leadership roles and seeing politics as a way to uplift our communities. It is important that we uplift and empower all girls," said Jessica Holmes, Wake County Commissioner. "As the youngest ever elected Commissioner in Wake County's history, I am thrilled that Raleigh Little Theatre is sharing Grace's campaign of courage, daring to stand out and independent thought with young girls across the Triangle. The musical is timely and sure to inspire anyone who attends."

First Lady Kristin Cooper will join RLT for opening night on Friday, October 13. After the production, Kristin will interview students from Magellan Charter School, Wiley Elementary, Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy and Thales Academy High School about their leadership experiences. On Saturday, October 14 after the 1pm performance Jessica Holmes will be interviewed by TaMya Bland, the actor who plays Grace, about her experiences in public leadership. The cast will also moderate a panel on Friday, October 20 featuring Mary-Ann Baldwin (Raleigh City Council; Executive Director, Holt Brothers Foundation / Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at Holt Brothers Inc.) and Billie Redmond (founder of TradeMark Properties; past chair of the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce) about leadership and public service.

All patrons are invited to come one hour prior to the show for a "Grace" inspired scavenger hunt in the Museum. For this purpose, the Museum will open up at 6:30pm before evening performances.

"Grace for President" is presented in partnership with the North Carolina Museum of History and sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Opening night is sponsored by Read With Me, and additional performances are sponsored by Kurt Sokolowski and Jessica Holmes.

The production runs October 13 - October 22 in the Daniels Auditorium at the North Carolina Museum of History, 5 East Edenton Street, Raleigh.Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office (919)-821-3111, Monday through Friday, noon to 5:00 p.m., or by visiting the theatre's website at www.raleighlittletheatre.org.

Founded in 1936, Raleigh Little Theatre (RLT) is one of the oldest, continuously operating, community theatres in the United States. RLT offers entertainment, education, and community programs year-round, reaching 40,000 people. As a community theatre, RLT engages hundreds of volunteers, under the guidance of professional staff, to achieve its mission and to bring quality live theatre to the Triangle area. Visit www.raleighlittletheatre.org for more information.

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