Synopsis
It’s 1866, one year after the end of the Civil War. Madison Hemings, son of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, and Israel Jefferson, formerly enslaved footman, return to their birthplace of Monticello in hopes of reuniting with Israel’s brother. Finding the formerly majestic estate near ruin, Madison attempts to claim what’s rightfully his by stripping the architectural features of the house he helped build. Both men are confronted with their conflicting feelings about the man who wrote “all men are created equal.” Israel advises Madison to consider the memories of the other families, hundreds of people, who were enslaved at Monticello, rather than loading down the wagon they need to carry them back to Ohio. When their wagon collapses under the weight of the salvaged load, they are forced to carefully consider the main question of the play—what do we need to keep with us as we move through this world, and what should we leave behind?
Details
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Status
In stock
- Type of Show Full-length Play
- Product Code RF3000
- Cast Size 2
- Min. Royalty Rate $90/perf
- Cost $10.95
- Approx. Run Time 120 min
Categories
- Target Audience Middle School | High School | College and Adult
- Performing Group High School | College Theatre | Community Theatre | Professional Theatre
- Genre Drama
- ISBN(13) 9781619593305
Media Reviews
“Madison’s story is powerful.” —Around The Town Chicago
“Smith’s dialogue is an intricate dance between the personal and the political, both tangled around the ideals of a nation founded on ‘self evident’ truths that sound noble in theory but didn’t apply to millions of people.” —Chicago Sun Times
“The Reclamation of Madison Hemings is another excellent example of [Smith’s] superb storytelling abilities.” —Let’s Play Theatrical Reviews
“A compelling historical story that America needs to hear.” —Let’s Play Theatrical Reviews
“Charles Smith does a masterful job sharing this unknown American story of a black child who never felt wanted by his famous white father—a hidden story from our society, which needs to convey to cure the ills of humanity.” —Let’s Play Theatrical Reviews
“A gripping retelling of personal and collective family histories.” —NUVO
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