Frederick Douglass is back in New York City in 2018; (a place of great significance in his life) but he doesn’t know why!
He left the world having accomplished lifelong dreams: free himself and his people. He was certain the world would be a better place and was resting comfortably in the hereafter when summoned back to earth. His opening song and statement, asks: “What do the people want from me today?”
Our hero is not in New York to deliver a speech. Or publish a newspaper. Or negotiate with political Power Brokers. Instead, he is catapulted into the arms of a woman who matches his intellectual prowess and wit. Playwright Tami Tyree plans his arrival in the city upon the wishes of Dr. Elena Harper, a woman of the moment whose dinner guest is her fantasy love object. In an evening of recollection, introspection, controversy and debate, the duo sizzle in an evening of romance, past and present.
Frederick Douglass became a free man downtown Manhattan after escaping Baltimore with the help of his fiancee, Anna Murray: a free woman whom he called for and married in the city days after his arrival in 1838. Accused of numerous love interests above and beyond his marriages, The New York Times wrote in his obituary, (1895) “Douglass’ life, from first to last, was filled with a keen sense of romance.” In one night in New York, an unexpected reunion with (first) wife Anna forces Frederick Douglass to reckon with his familial and romantic past, shattering hostess Elena Harper’s dreamy evening…or does it?
Anna Murray Douglass has been called the “unsung hero” in Frederick Douglass’ life.
She will sing that night.
The vivacious Dr. Harper welcomes her fantasy date…
Copyright 2018 by Tami Tyree
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