The life of Jackie Robinson, the pioneering athlete who helped end racial segregation in professional baseball, will be dramatized for young audiences at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Croswell Opera House.
The performance is part of the Croswell’s Spectacular Saturday Series for children and families. A free preshow craft will be offered starting at 10 a.m.
Robinson was born in an era when much of American life, including professional sports, was strictly segregated. He broke baseball’s color barrier in 1947 when he became the first baseman for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He was frequently the target of racial slurs and even physical violence.
The educational play is presented by Bright Star Touring Theatre, which has previously visited the Croswell with shows like last year’s “Rosa Parks and Forgotten Friends” and “The Velveteen Rabbit.”
The play will take young audiences on a journey from Robinson’s childhood, including the valuable lessons he learned from his mother, to his successful 10-year career with the Dodgers. Volunteers will even be able to join Robinson on stage as he learns to overcome bullying without violence.
“This is such an inspiring story about finding your talent, following your dreams and never giving up,” said Jere Righter, artistic director of the Croswell.
Righter added that Bright Star Touring Theatre has become a favorite with families who have attended the Croswell’s Spectacular Saturday Series.
“Their shows are meant for kids, but there’s really something for everyone in them,” she said. “I think the parents come away from these shows having enjoyed them just as much as the kids did.”
The play will last just under an hour.
Admission is $5 per person. Tickets may be purchased at the door, online, or by calling 517-264-7469.
For more information about the show, as well as a downloadable study guide parents and teachers can use to discuss the show with children, visit croswell.org/jackierobinson.
If you go
- What: “Jackie Robinson”
- Where: The Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian
- When: Saturday, February 27, at 11 a.m. (with free preshow craft starting at 10 a.m.)
- Admission: $5 per person