Help Brayden reach Chicago to compete on a national stage!
The work we make on this stage doesn't end at the curtain.
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Brayden Landry took gold in NAACP ACT-SO Dramatics and earned his place at the national competition in Chicago, July 15 to 19!
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His registration and flights are handled; the final $2,000 for hotel, meals, and ground transportation is due July 14. This effort is run by Creative Reach, separate from The Juneteenth Story, but it's the same belief that got us all here: young Black artists deserve every stage they earn.
About the Production
Written by local playwright Twana Benoit and directed by her son, Josiah Price — Resident Director of The Black Theatre Experience. A live theatrical and civic gathering that commemorates Juneteenth through story, music, movement, and intergenerational dialogue.
Told across two timelines, connecting emancipation-era experiences to the ongoing work of freedom today. As the Williams family prepares for the annual Juneteenth Festival, they are regaled with real-life tales of how the story of freedom came about. The play began in the early nineties as 'When We Gon Be Free'.
Over 500 guests annually. Pre-show by Fire Expressions Dance Conservatory. For 2027, expanding with mainstage performances at AcA and a Gala Fundraiser.
From the Stage
A visual showcase of production photography from both historical and modern timelines, documenting the Williams family's journey through freedom by Matthew Johnson of Mac Media Design.
Teaching freedom as a living practice
Camp Performances
Providing free mainstage shows for Lafayette Parks & Rec summer campers, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Boys & Girls Club members.
Presenting Sponsor
Only 1 available. Includes 16 premium tickets and premier billing across all platforms.
Community Sponsor
Open availability. Includes 2 tickets and recognition in our community partner list.
Help tell a story of freedom. Your sponsorship directly supports our mainstage production and educational programs.
Build this with us
Heritage Sponsor
2 available. Includes 10 tickets and featured recognition in production and gala materials.
Freedom Sponsor
In honor of 1865. Limited availability. Includes 4 tickets and name in playbill.
Questions? Contact us at thejuneteenthstory@gmail.com