Words That Made the Difference: Brown vs The Board of Education

Words That Made the Difference: Brown v. Board of Education returns to Alameda for two shows at the Altarena Playhouse before continuing a nationwide tour of the play about the landmark case that brought about a desegregation ruling that changed the nation. The play brings the audience into the courtrooms of history, draws from the actual trial transcripts and events, and gives a glimpse into the memoirs of Chief Justice Earl Warren in the fight to end school segregation that culminated in Brown vs. the Board of Education.

As legislators have recently pardoned Homer Plessy and exonerated Claudette Colvin for desegregation issues, Words That Made the Difference holds meaning as the nation struggles with the work to be an anti-racist society. Local actors include Amos White, Russ Whismore, and Gene Kahane.

About Dr. Cindy Acker, Ed.D

Dr. Cindy Acker, Ed.D. (Playwright and Director) is a six time award-winning educator, author, and playwright. Vocally trained by the late Johnny Land, Acker has sung with the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Glide Ensemble, Unity In Marin, and the MCC Worship and Praise Choir of San Francisco. She has led and toured three choirs, performing in the Governor’s chambers on behalf of marriage equality. Acker has produced an Emmy award-winning feature, entitled “Creative Parenting,” and has written several plays, performed in the US and a Canada, including an award-winning musical entitled “In Our Hands.”

About Altarena Playhouse

With a history of live theater since 1938, the Altarena Playhouse provides an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for patrons and artists alike. With our critically acclaimed productions, Altarena Playhouse strives to foster greater appreciation and support for the theater arts in Alameda and throughout the Bay Area.