In concurrence with the University of Florida production of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean, directed by Dr. Mikell Pinkney, the School of Theatre and Dance will host a free symposium titled "An Incessant Journey: Investigating Spirituality in August Wilson’s 20^th Century Play Cycle." The event will begin September 17^th at 7:30pm with the opening performance of Gem of the Ocean and continues throughout the day on Saturday, September 18^th, at Constans Theatre (next to the UF J. W. Reitz Student Union). The discussion will explore Wilson’s use of spirituality, or magic, supernatural aspects, prophecies, music, visions, faith and character beliefs that are not confined by traditional world conventions.  The symposium will feature four authoritative voices on Wilson's work from the academic, performance and production areas.

Actor Ebony Jo-Ann (Grown Ups and When In Rome), scholar Dr. Sandra Shannon (preeminent authority on Wilson) and theatre producer and advocate Woodie King Jr. (New Federal Theatre of New York City), will arrive in Gainesville for the Friday, September 17^th  opening night performance of Gem of the Ocean.  A small homage reception will follow the performance.  Producer, director and scholar Lou Bellamy, long time friend of August Wilson and artistic director of Penumbra Theatre of St. Paul, MN, will join the symposium via video on Saturday, September 18^th

Wilson’s play cycle, called “one of the most ambitious dramatic projects ever undertaken” by The New York Times, presents a rare inside view of African American culture during the 20^th century in different developmental eras.  Using the first play of the cycle, Gem of the Ocean, as a spring board for discovery and discussion, the symposium will focus on the spiritual journeys and links that run through the themes and characters in all ten plays, from Aunt Ester Tyler in the first play to Harmond Wilkes in the last play, Radio Golf.  The intent is to utilize the papers, panels and discussions presented during the symposium for a future edited publication.  A wider goal is to shine light on the powerful elements of spirituality that run through all of Black dramatic literature.

The symposium is expected to be accessible thought the internet links, thanks to the efforts of the UF Digital Worlds Institute.  Registration and detailed information for the symposium is available at:

http://wilsonsymposium.pandpprojects.net.