Student Matinee – Finding North

Grades 5-8 (age 10+)

FINDING NORTH brings to life the powerful stories of the strivings, sacrifices and dreams of John P. Parker, a former enslaved man who dedicated his life to helping enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad in southern Ohio. Drawn from historical research, Parker’s tale is woven together with verbatim interview material and oral histories from contemporary community members who tell their stories of searching for haven.

A timely and provocative contribution to the national conversation about prejudice, privilege, and human rights, the play is both an exploration and celebration of the continuing quest for justice and freedom in America.

Originally written by David Gonzalez and commissioned by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park to celebrate the opening of Cincinnati’s Underground Railroad Freedom Center, FINDING NORTH has been updated through the collaboration of David Gonzalez with performer/director Daniel Carlton. Carlton captivates the audience with his one-man performance of John Parker and all the other characters, while accompanied by Gonzalez playing blues guitar. The piece concludes with a dynamic audience talk-back.