Ford's Theatre Society Presents NECESSARY SACRIFICES, 1/20-2/12

The Ford's Theatre Society presents the world premiere of the newly commissioned play Necessary Sacrifices by Richard Hellesen, directed by Jennifer L. Nelson from January 20-February 12, 2012. Necessary Sacrifices explores the two documenTEd White House encounters between Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln during a period of national crisis. The production stars David Selby as Abraham Lincoln and David Emerson Toney as Frederick Douglass. The play is presented in connection with the opening of the new Ford's Theatre Center for Education and Leadership (514 Tenth Street NW, Washington, D.C.) in February 2012.

During the summers of 1863 and 1864, Frederick Douglass challenges President Lincoln to envision a post-emancipation world. The men ponder not only a unified nation but a society that brings truth to the Declaration of Independence's assertion that "all men are created equal." Hellesen's previous works for Ford's Theatre include "One Destiny," "Investigation: Detective McDevitt" and "The Road From Appomattox," three gripping and insightful explorations of critical moments in Civil War history.

"We are thrilled to present this historic world premiere," said Paul R. Tetreault, Director of Ford's Theatre. "Richard Hellesen has written a remarkable play that explores the critical issues of union and equality that challenged Lincoln throughout his presidency. Along with the special events that follow in February, Necessary Sacrifices will provide a magnificent tribute to our greatest president as we celebrate the historic opening of the exhibits and education studios at the Center for Education and Leadership."

"When given the task of writing about leadership for Ford's Theatre, there was an opportunity to also explore the perspective of Frederick Douglass," said playwright Richard Hellesen. "Through the story we come to understand what Douglass thinks, wants and expects of Lincoln as well as what disappoints Douglass about the President. We see how people of different circumstances can, in fact, work together to challenge the status quo and imagine a united future for our nation."

"Necessary Sacrifices tells a composite story of two men, fierce in their philosophies and steadfast in their love of humanity," said director Jennifer L. Nelson. "We know who won the Civil War. We know about its aftermath, the lingering effects of racism and regional differences. But the story we need to tell is how these two visionaries-fathers, husbands, ordinary human beings-sacrificed their private lives on our behalf, not for personal gain but for-dare I say it-the greater good."

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