In a unique and riveting twist on its lunchtime lecture series, Connecticut’s Old State House and the Judy Dworin Performance Project bring one Connecticut family’s struggles with slavery to life through dramatic song and dance. On March 16th at 12 pm, The Judy Dworin Performance Project will perform a free preview of “In This House,” which is set to premiere later this spring. Join us for this exclusive sneak peek!

As our nation prepares to honor the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, “In This House” explores slavery in Connecticut through the experiences of one family. On March 16, an excerpt of this innovative performance piece will be shown at the Old State House and will explore the well-documented lives of Joshua Hempsted and Adam Jackson, who lived in New London in the 1740s. Through original and evocative dance and song, the Judy Dworin Performance Project will tell the story of two men—black and white, master and slave—who lived and worked together in Connecticut over the course of many years.

Historian Allegra di Bonaventura will provide introductory comments about slavery in colonial Connecticut and set the context for the dances. Dr. di Bonaventura is the author of an upcoming book, About Home: Master and Slave in Old New England, based on the lives of the Hempsteds and the enslaved Jacksons who lived in the Joshua Hempsted House. Judy Dworin and the actors will be available for questions from the audience following the abbreviated show.

Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to enjoy during this free program. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by either calling 860-522-6766 or visiting http://tinyurl.com/OSH2011Lecture.