“Sketches of Lee: A Black American Experience” is an hour to an hour and a half live performance of selections from the “Sketches of Lee” short story collection. ”Sketches” is Michael Cameron Ward’s autobiographical account of family life in Lee and the surrounding area of Southeastern NH in the late 1950’s to 2017.  The performance illustrates some of the universal challenges faced by members of an “Index” population. That is, the first members of a race or ethnic group to enter a community.  In the Ward’s case they relocated from Brooklyn NY to Lee, NH to escape gang violence. As the Index of Integration their goal was to be recognized as part of the community and not as “Those People”. Multiple challenges were encountered; social, environmental, and mostly unexpected.  
Silent determination and hard work were the keys to their successful resolution. And although ultimately successful, the Ward’s journey was long and difficult.

The performance of these vignettes spans the full range of human emotions: determination, fear, humor, hate, generosity, and love. Its grip is vise like. It is only after the conclusion, that the audience can catch their breath and then breathe a sigh of relief. It is a slice of American history, a noteworthy addition to our current national dialogue on fairness, inclusion, and race. It is a performance that will make you reflect and question our future path as a nation. 

This presentation may contain mature language. No registration required; open to all. Books will be available to purchase at the event. Snow date is Tuesday February 25 at 5:30 pm.