Warriors Don't Cry
In 1957, the Little Rock Nine risked their lives and ended segregation at Central High School. Their struggle changed America. Melba Pattillo Beals was one of those nine. This is her story in her own words. One actress embodies many roles as she leads the audience on an educational, emotional and inspiring journey.
The memoir by Dr. Beals received the American Library Association Award, 1995 Nonfiction Book of the Year; and the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award. When first performed at the Bushnell, the honesty of Warriors prompted members of the community to recount their stories of "whites only" lunch counters, ladies' rooms, and public water fountains. Warriors doesn't shy away from the "n word." On the contrary, out of respect for history and with the hope that modern audiences will better understand the impact of hate speech, the word is conveyed with all the power it carried in 1957.
"It's mid-October. The newspaper headlines read, "101 Division Cut Back Force Today." The thought of fewer troops terrifies me. But the warrior growing inside me squares my shoulders and puts my mind on alert to do whatever is necessary to survive." Dr. Melba Pattillo
Best for Grades 5th and up
Produced by The Bushnell Center for the Arts
of Hartford, Connecticut