Celebrating the birth & legacy of

JAMES BALDWIN

Celebrating his words through our voice
with a monologue from:

The Amen Corner

One of the 20th century’s greatest writers, James Baldwin was a playwright, essayist, and novelist. With piercing observations on racial, sexual, and social issues in American culture, he became a voice of the American civil rights movement. James Baldwin was born on August 2, 1924. 

Today, we continue to celebrate James Baldwin’s birthday and legacy with a monologue from his first play, The Amen Corner, performed by Actors Co-op Theatre Company member, Kimi Walker! 

Watch Co-op Member KIMI WALKER give voice to James Baldwin’s
The Amen Corner:

More on The Amen Corner:

Baldwin’s first play, The Amen Corner was performed at Howard University in 1955 and on Broadway in 1965 (produced by Mrs. Nat Cole and starring Bea Richards as Sister Margaret).  The story centers on a storefront Pentecostal church in Harlem in the 1950’s and explores the potential for religion to both hurt and heal.

Margaret, the church pastor, faces the unexpected return of her estranged husband, Luke, who has been overcome by illness. With his return, secrets and lies from Margaret’s past and what led her family to break up are revealed. David, the son of Luke & Margaret, along with elders of the congregation discover these secrets and see Margaret and her teachings in a new light which makes them skeptical of her religious convictions.
The story is a piercing exploration of faith and family. 

Learn more about JAMES BALDWIN:

Read More:
The Cross of Redemption: Uncollected Writings by James Baldwin
Available on Amazon

Watch More:
I Am Not Your Negro Documentary
Streaming on Netflix

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