“An Evening with Frederick Douglass”

The Frederick Douglass Honor Society will host “An Evening with Frederick Douglass” on March 20, 2010 from 6 to 9pm at the Avalon Theater in Easton, Maryland. The evening’s program includes an enactment of Frederick Douglass by famed actor Fred Morsell, music by Sombarkin and a silent auction.  This event will raise funds to create a memorial to Frederick Douglass on the front lawn of the Talbot County Courthouse.

Acclaimed across the United States for his portrayal of Frederick Douglass, Mr. Morsell’s acting career has spanned more than 38 years and includes seasons with The Actors’ Theatre of Louisville, The Repertory Theatre of the Lincoln Center, The New York Shakespeare Festival, the McCarter Theatre of Princeton and other regional theaters throughout America. His television credits include the role of Frederick Douglass in the CBS Bi-Centennial production, WE, THE WOMEN in addition to his portrayal of Douglass across the nation, most notably as the performer of choice for the National Park Service Celebrations in Washington, DC. During his performance at the Avalon on March 20, Mr. Morsell will enact his interpretation of Frederick Douglass ‘life and thoughts and answer audience questions in character at the close of his performance.

Another highlight for the March 20th event will be the music performed by Sombarkin’, a powerful              a cappella gospel trio (Karen Somerville, Lester Barrett Jr. and Jerome McKinney). Sombarkin’ is renowned in their musical interpretations of jazz, folk, gospel, spirituals and map songs, having played at regional and national venues including the Hampton National Historic Site.  The music provided by Sombarkin’ is certain to enrich the audience’s enjoyment.

The silent auction will raise funds for the important mission of the Frederick Douglass Honor Society dedicated to the creation of a memorial to Frederick Douglass. Some of the featured silent auction items include a painting donated by Mrs. Nancy Hunter, an art piece by artist Carol Minarick and a bust of Frederick Douglass by Jay Hall Carpenter.   A design by the Maryland sculptor Jay Hall Carpenter has been selected for the memorial and will be on display at this evening’s event. Attendance at the March 20th event will garner both funds and enthusiasm for this important community project to realize the dream to honor Frederick Douglass in the county of his birthplace.

Tickets can be purchased for a minimum of $35 by contacting Pam Black, FDHS public relations liaison, at 410-770-3751.