The headlines of the Delaware News Journal read, "Teacher sings the songs of slavery."
Dr. Valarie Boyer portrays a slave who she names after her great-grandmother from South Carolina, Susan Petty. Although Susan was not a slave, the person was real and she knew the what an American slave endured in the south. Dr. Boyer an historical interpreter and has performed from Salem Massachusetts to Southern Delaware. She enjoys writing and performing her own programs, and began her performances with, " Songs of a Faithful People." This program begins with a Negro spiritual, " I Want Jesus to Walk With Me." Listeners are introduced to ten additional spirituals as they hear the story of the woman, Susan, running toward freedom. Dr. Boyer encourages the audience, to sing along, if the song moves them to do so. The program is approximately 40 minutes in length, and accompanied with a question and answer period following the performance. This program is suitable for all ages. There is a charge for each presentation. A simple signed contract is required before each presentation by Timeless Historical Productions. A program of "Songs of the Civil War" is available and the price is given upon request. This program requires a pianist accompaniment. |
Portrayal of Charlotte Forten GrimkeDr. Boyer portrays Charolette Forten who was born in 1837 and attended the Salem Normal School in 1856 which is now Salem State Collenge in Salem, Massachusetts where Dr. Boyer performed for the Peabody Essex Institute Museum.This portrayal is 50 minutes in length, and a monologue with modest props are used. Throughout the presentation, Dr. Boyer sings songs of the 19th century, and one 20th century created song to commemorate the American Civil War.
|
School Days a portrayal of Nannie Goode
|
The Kidnapping of BathshebaBathsheba Bungy was born in New Castle Delaware in 1816. She was kidnapped and taken into the state of Maryland by two white men who were later caught. Subsequently they faced a trial and conviction. This is the story of Bathsheba and her kidnapping along with valuable Bungy family history regarding their influence in Old New Castle. Dr. Boyer presents this program through the use of a monologue and 19th century songs.
|