Best of Enemies
February 17-26, 2023
Bean-Brown Theatre
by Mark St. Germain
based on The Best of Enemies by Osha Gray Davidson
Directed by Michael Walker
In 1971, arch-enemies Ann Atwater and C.P. Ellis find themselves face-to-face on a committee formed to desegregate the schools of Durham, North Carolina. Seemingly a recipe for disaster, their mutual prejudices about one another are soon shattered as each begins to understand the plight of the other. Based on an inspiring true story, this drama shows how a new beginning can lead the worst of enemies to become the best of friends.
Performances & Tickets
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Thursday, February 16 at 7:30 p.m. *Pay-What-You-Can Dress Rehearsal - - Cancelled Due to Weather!
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Friday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m.
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Saturday, February 18 at 7:30 p.m.
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Sunday, February 19 at 2:00 p.m.
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Wednesday, February 22 at 2:00 p.m.
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Thursday, February 23 at 7:30 p.m. - Stay for a post-show discussion with the cast!
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Friday, February 24 at 7:30 p.m.
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Saturday, February 25 at 2:00 p.m.
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Sunday, February 26 at 2:00 p.m.
Cast
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Ann Atwater – Kenyatta "YaYa" Browne
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C.P. Ellis – Wescott Youngson
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Mary Ellis – Melissa Grantham
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Bill Riddick – DeAnthony Mays
Production Credits
Osha Gray Davidson
Author
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Mark St. Germain
Playwright
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Michael Walker
Director
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Mariah Kravitz
Stage Manager
David Page
Scenic Design
Jeanette Waterman
Costume Design
Lyndell McDonald
Lighting Design
Bart Pitchford
Sound Design
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Ava Buchanan
Hair & Makeup Design
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the running time of the production?
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Approximately 90 minutes
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Will there be an intermission?
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No, there will not be an intermission.
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Should I bring the kids?
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This show is not intended for children. Due to the language and heavy themes of violence and racism, this show is recommended for those 13 and up.
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What themes are explored in the play?
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Best of Enemies explores the harsh reality of racism and the process of desegregating schools in the South.
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Does the play’s text contain offensive language?
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Yes, this play contains strong adult language including racial slurs.
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Does the play contain violence?
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Yes, there is self-harm depicted on stage, guns depicted, and discussions of graphic racial violence.
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Does the play contain the use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs?
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Yes, alcohol and tobacco are used on stage.
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Does the play contain nudity or other adult situations?
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Neither nudity nor adult situations are portrayed on stage, but there are some mild references to adult situations.
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