Painting of Georgia Gordon 1873

Following the passing of his aunt, our main character journeys to her home in Nashville. Among her cherished belongings, he discovers a painting of Georgia Gordon Taylor, a Fisk Jubilee Singer, and an old Hammond organ. Initially uninterested in gospel music, Kenny resists singing at his aunt’s funeral but ultimately performs, honoring her passion and heritage.

Back home, Kenny ponders Georgia Gordon’s melancholic gaze in the painting—her sorrow feels eerily familiar. His grandson later remarks that "the lady in the painting is staring at me," prompting Kenny to move it into his studio. Then, something inexplicable happens—Georgia Gordon reaches out.

Through dreams and meditations, she shows Kenny visions and speaks of freedom, struggles, and identity—the same themes the Fisk Jubilee Singers embodied in their music as they fought for recognition and dignity in post-slavery America. She urges him to say certain words—incantations, prayers—to help her. Their conversations unravel the complexities of race, womanhood, and personal liberation. As Kenny pieces together her story, he embarks on a transformative artistic journey, re-examining history and amplifying voices long overlooked.

Utilizing immersive technologies, creative staging, and binaural audio effects, this production will transport audiences into Kenny’s mind, bridging past and present through a visceral theatrical experience that mirrors the cultural battle the Fisk Jubilee Singers fought through their performances.

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