Port Chicago 50

https://tickets.greatstartheater.org/events/greatstartheater/1377394

Stage Play: The Untold Story of the Port Chicago Disaster
Inspired by true events, this powerful theatrical production sheds light on the forgotten history of African American sailors recruited by the United States Navy during World War II. These men were assigned to the highly dangerous task of loading artillery onto ships at the Port Chicago shipyard in California, a segregated facility where Black sailors faced unsafe working conditions and racial discrimination. In the summer of 1944, tragedy struck. A massive explosion ripped through the shipyard, killing 320 sailors—202 of them African American. The disaster raised crucial questions about the treatment of Black servicemen in the U.S. military, igniting one of the largest mutinies of the war and a landmark moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Through gripping performances and historical accuracy, the play explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the quest for justice in the face of systemic racism. Meet these heroic men. Get to know their hopes, dreams and quest for The American Dream. Written by David Shackelford and Dennis Rowe, Port Chicago 50 is a roller coaster of laughs and drama.
Join us as we bring to life this important, yet often overlooked, chapter of American history—a story of courage, loss, and the fight for equality amidst the chaos of war. Produced by Dennis Rowe Entertainment. Meet some special guests after the show:
Join us for a talk back with the cast, a reception with food, photo opportunities with possible special guests flying in from Washington DC, General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer of the Department of the Navy, Sean Coffey. Coffey will participate in the talk back and discuss the recent pardon of the men of Port Chicago