The play is a powerful work that shares the untold story of Otto Sampson Sr., a member of the “Black Angels,” the 380th Quartermaster Truck Company. Black Angels were African American soldiers who served under General Patton and played a pivotal role in the liberation of Buchenwald. Hear a dramatic reading of the first act directed by the INCREDIBLE Basement Poetry board chair Deirdre Van Walters.
5:30 PM — Doors Open
6:00–6:15 PM — Reception and refreshments
6:15–6:45 PM — Act One Reading of Black Angel, then brief break with refreshments.
7:00 PM — Stick around for a powerful post-show conversation with playwright Francine Gold and Rasheeda Sampson-Jefferson, daughter of Otto Sampson Sr., as they reflect on the history, humanity, and legacy behind the play.
Francine Gold, playwright
Francine Gold is a 1st born American, and the descendent of victims and survivors of the Holocaust. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education, and an undergraduate Degree in Theatre Arts.
She has won numerous awards and most recently was honored in 2020 with the Secretary of The Smithsonian and founding director of the National Museum of African American History in Washington D.C. as the inaugural recipients of the David McCullough Prize for Excellence in Public History. Prior to twenty years in public education, Ms. Gold's theater background includes Co-founding The Healing Theatre, Inc., directing and writing children's theater, and artist in residencies. She is currently working on a theatrical satire, literary memoir and literacy thru history educational book. Francine is good friends with Rasheeda Sampson-Jefferson.
Why Attend?
Witness raw, original art from local voices.
Be moved by live music that sets the tone.
Engage in a meaningful, real-world discussion
Free admission (donations welcome)
Seating is limited – early arrival recommended!
Presented by Basement Poetry