Birmingham Children’s Theatre is bringing a powerful and inspiring story to the stage this February with Catching the Moon
, a production detailing the life of Toni Stone, the first woman to play professional baseball in the Negro Leagues. The play, running , , and , promises a moving theatrical experience for audiences aged six and up.
The production is particularly noteworthy for its partnership with the Negro Southern League Museum, a collaboration that underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Black baseball history. Catching the Moon
isn’t simply a biographical retelling; it’s a story of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers, themes that resonate deeply within the legacy of the Negro Leagues themselves. The play’s narrative focuses on Marcenia Lyle, the young girl who would ultimately become Toni Stone, and her unwavering pursuit of a dream often deemed impossible for women at the time.
What sets this production apart is the inclusion of post-show talkback sessions featuring individuals directly connected to the world of Negro League baseball. Former Indianapolis Clowns player Joseph Marbury and Alabama Blues Hall of Famer Hurricane Elaine Hudson will share their experiences and insights, offering audiences a unique opportunity to connect with living history. These sessions will undoubtedly add layers of depth and authenticity to the theatrical presentation, bridging the gap between the story on stage and the realities of the era.
The creative team behind Catching the Moon
brings a wealth of talent to the project. Nichole Jackson penned the book and lyrics, while Tyrone L. Robinson contributed music and lyrics. The play is adapted from the book by Crystal Hubbard, ensuring a faithful and nuanced portrayal of Toni Stone’s remarkable journey. The combination of these artistic voices suggests a production that will be both emotionally resonant and artistically compelling.
The Birmingham Children’s Theatre, located at
2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd, Birmingham, AL, 35203, is presenting the play in its MainStage Theatre. Performances are scheduled for at , at , and at . The approximate runtime is 75 minutes, making it an accessible length for younger audiences.
The story of Toni Stone is a crucial piece of baseball history, often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Her courage to defy societal norms and pursue her passion paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Playing for the New Orleans Creoles, the Kansas City Monarchs, and the Indianapolis Clowns, Stone faced immense prejudice and skepticism, yet she persevered, demonstrating exceptional skill and unwavering determination. Her career, though relatively short, left an indelible mark on the sport and challenged deeply ingrained biases.
The Birmingham Children’s Theatre’s decision to stage Catching the Moon
reflects a growing commitment to diverse and inclusive storytelling. By bringing Stone’s story to a young audience, the theatre is not only entertaining but also educating, fostering empathy and inspiring future generations to challenge limitations and pursue their dreams. The play’s emphasis on rhythm, grit, and heart
suggests a production that will be both emotionally engaging and culturally significant.
For those interested in attending, tickets are available for purchase, and a 10% discount is offered with the code MOON
at checkout. The theatre can be reached at 205-458-8181 or through their website. The production promises to be more than just a play; it’s a celebration of a pioneering athlete and a testament to the power of the human spirit. It’s a story that deserves to be told, and the Birmingham Children’s Theatre, in partnership with the Negro Southern League Museum, is providing a vital platform for its dissemination.
The inclusion of talkback sessions with Joseph Marbury and Hurricane Elaine Hudson is a particularly valuable component of this production. Marbury’s firsthand experience as a Negro League player will offer invaluable context and insight into the challenges and triumphs of that era. Hudson’s contributions as an Alabama Blues Hall of Famer will further enrich the cultural landscape surrounding the play, highlighting the interconnectedness of music and baseball within the Black community.
Catching the Moon
is a timely and important production that speaks to themes of perseverance, equality, and the pursuit of dreams. It’s a story that will resonate with audiences of all ages, and its presentation by the Birmingham Children’s Theatre is a testament to the power of theatre to inspire, educate, and entertain.
