For Immediate Release: January 1, 1998
Further information: Tom McNaught (617) 514-1662
As part of its special programming for children and their families, and in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum announced that it will host a free performance by noted storyteller Sumner McClain who portrays “Daddy King,” the father of the Civil Rights leader, on Saturday, January 17. The free performance will begin at 10:30 am.
Sumner McClain is a storyteller - a spinner of tales - who delights his audience with imaginative stories and singing in which they are encouraged to participate. The story of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is brought vividly alive by Mr. McClain who has fashioned this tale from the perspective of Dr. King’s father “Daddy King.” The journey from childhood to adulthood as only a father could see it, brings to audiences a living, breathing Martin Luther King, Jr. Mr. McClain gives him feelings and hopes and dreams, infusing a new meaning of the man and his work.
Sumner McClain has performed at hundreds of schools and libraries, and has appeared at Storytellers in Concert, the Three Apples Storytelling Festival, First Night Celebrations in Boston, Worcester, and New Bedford, and the Boston Globe Book Festival. He has also worked with the Theater Company of Boston, People’s Theater, Inc., New African Company, and the Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts.
The Children’s Hour at the John F. Kennedy Library is a series of performances by some of this country’s most noted storytellers, musicians, artists and puppeteers presented in a manner appropriate for family audiences and children of ages 5 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, please call (617) 514-1678.