A New Staged Reading Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Elizabeth Freeman
Pittsfield, MA—Berkshire Theatre Group (BTG), CEO, Artistic Director Kate Maguire and The Du Bois Freedom Center proudly present 1781, a staged reading of a compelling new work inspired by one of the Berkshires’ most extraordinary true stories. Written and researched by Lonnie Carter and Linda Rossi, and directed by Clinton Turner Davis, 1781 will be presented on The Larry Vaber Stage at The Unicorn Theatre on Thursday, August 20 at 2pm and Friday, August 21 at 2pm. Tickets are $20.
1781 tells the remarkable story of Elizabeth Freeman (formerly known as Mum Bett) and Brom, two enslaved people whose courageous challenge to the institution of slavery became a landmark Berkshire County court case. Inspired by the revolutionary promise that “all men are created equal,” Elizabeth Freeman sought her freedom with the support of attorney Theodore Sedgwick, setting in motion a legal victory that helped pave the way for the end of slavery in Massachusetts.
Presented as a staged reading, 1781 offers audiences an opportunity to experience an exciting new theatrical work while exploring a pivotal chapter in Berkshire history. Through moments of courage, resilience and determination, the play illuminates Elizabeth Freeman’s enduring legacy and the pursuit of justice that continues to resonate today.
This co-production brings together Berkshire Theatre Group and The Du Bois Freedom Center in a shared commitment to telling stories rooted in the history of the Berkshires and amplifying voices that have shaped the Commonwealth and the nation. By honoring Elizabeth Freeman’s extraordinary life and legacy, 1781 invites audiences to reflect on the enduring power of her courage and the ongoing pursuit of liberty and equality in America.
At The Unicorn Theatre
1781
A Staged Reading of a new work about Elizabeth Freeman formerly known as Mum Bett
A Co-Production with The Du Bois Freedom Center
written and researched by Lonnie Carter and Linda Rossi
directed by Clinton Turner David
on The Larry Vaber Stage
at The Unicorn Theatre, Stockbridge, MA
Performance Dates: Thursday, August 20 at 2pm & Friday, August 21 at 2pm
Ticket Price: $20
About Berkshire Theatre Group The Colonial Theatre, founded in 1903, and Berkshire Theatre Festival, founded in 1928, are two of the oldest cultural organizations in the Berkshires. In 2010, under the leadership of Artistic Director and CEO Kate Maguire, the two organizations merged to form Berkshire Theatre Group (BTG).