A play about sisterhood, women coming together, holding each other in the light, and caring for one another on the western frontier.
Flyin’ West is a compelling, crowd-pleasing drama by esteemed playwright Pearl Cleage. Set in the 1890s, the story unfolds in the historic town of Nicodemus, Kansas, one of the many all-Black towns established in the American West following the Civil War.
Through the eyes of four African American women, the play delves into their journey of resilience and aspiration as they navigate their lives against the backdrop of the harsh realities of the frontier and the societal constraints of the era.
With themes of community, racial pride, and female empowerment, Flyin’ West is a powerful portrayal of the determination and grit of Black pioneers, offering audiences a captivating glimpse into an often overlooked chapter of American history.
Flyin’ West stars Janet Oliver (Miss Leah), Kade’sha Barnard (Sophia Washington), Mikhale Sherrill (Frannie Dove), Spike Thompson (Wil Parish), Molly Cantrell (Minnie Dove Charles), and Lucas York (Frank Charles).
Presented February 16-25 by Asheville Community Theatre and Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective. Performances held Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m. A talkback with the cast and crew will be held following the performance on February 18. This production takes place at Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E. Walnut St. in Asheville. Purchase tickets at ashevilletheatre.org/mc_event/flyin-west. For more details, please call (828) 254-1320.
Note: Flyin’ West contains profanity, racial and ethnic slurs, and discussions about slavery and murder. There are depictions of domestic violence, gun usage, smoking, and alcohol consumption; rated PG-13.
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