Friday, January 26, 2018

Saint Luke Productions: "Tolton: From Slave to Priest" premieres in Southern California this weekend; tours nationally


Saint Luke Productions writes:

Dear Mr. Zick,

I thought the readers of your blog might be interested in this musical/dramatic event on the life of the first African American priest, portrayed by veteran TV/film actor Jim R. Coleman (jimcolemanactor.com), “Tolton: From Slave to Priest” which premieres in Southern California this weekend, Jan. 26-28.  The shows will be at the Freed Theater, the professional space at the former Crystal Cathedral campus, now the Christ Cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange.

There are four Negro spirituals featured throughout the 75 minute drama, including gorgeous improvisations by Atlanta actress Elissa Sanders.  “Steal Away,” “Do You Hear the Lambs a-cryin” and “my god is so high.”The score was based on these, and created by young composer Tony Manfredonia of Michigan.

Event information:
Fri,. Jan. 26, 7pm
Sat., Jan. 27, 7pm
Sun., Jan. 28, noon

Freed Theater, on the campus of Christ Cathedral (formerly Crystal Cathedral), Garden Grove, in Orange County

Tickets: $20 plus Eventbrite fee – www.ccdramaseries.com or can be purchased at the door.  During business hours Pacific Time, live assistance provided at 360-687-8029 (Saint Luke Productions).

Historical information: www.ToltonCanonization.org

Fr. Tolton (1854-1897) is on the road to sainthood; his cause is being led by Bishop Perry in the Archdiocese of Chicago, where Fr. Tolton died tragically young. He was the first-ever African American priest. His rejection by American seminaries was not an obstacle too big – he went to Rome for his seminary education and ordination.  His messages of perseverance in adversity, humility, and forgiveness will bring hope and healing to our nation.


The show will tour nationally, booked in various dioceses such as Youngstown, Memphis, and Dallas.

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