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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

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Home > Upcoming Shows & Events > Best of Enemies > The Real Ann Atwater > The Real CP Ellis > The Real Bill Riddick > The Real Mary Ellis

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.

We are supporting the 34th Annual African American Read-In during Best of Enemies. Click here for more info on ways you can help and/or bring a book to drop off in our lobby when you come to the show! 

Note: This production contains racially charged language and content. See our FAQ section below for details.

Performance & Tickets

Performances & Tickets

Tickets now on sale. Click here to purchase online.

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  • Thursday, February 16 at 7:30 p.m. *Pay-What-You-Can Dress Rehearsal  - - Cancelled Due to Weather!

  • Friday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m.

  • Saturday, February 18 at 7:30 p.m.

  • Sunday, February 19 at 2:00 p.m.

  • Wednesday, February 22 at 2:00 p.m.

  • Thursday, February 23 at 7:30 p.m. - Stay for a post-show discussion with the cast!

  • Friday, February 24 at 7:30 p.m.

  • Saturday, February 25 at 2:00 p.m.

  • Sunday, February 26 at 2:00 p.m.

Characters/Roles Available

Cast

​Thank you to everyone who auditioned!

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  • Ann Atwater – Kenyatta "YaYa" Browne

  • C.P. Ellis – Wescott Youngson

  • Mary Ellis – Melissa Grantham

  • Bill Riddick – DeAnthony Mays

Clockwise from top left: Kenyatta "YaYa" Browne, Wescott Youngson, DeAnthony Mays, and Melissa Grantham
Production Credits

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

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the running time of the production?

    • Approximately 90 minutes

  • Will there be an intermission?

    • No, there will not be an intermission.

  • Should I bring the kids?

    • 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.  

  • What themes are explored in the play? 

    • Best of Enemies explores the harsh reality of racism and the process of desegregating schools in the South. 

  • Does the play’s text contain offensive language?

    • Yes, this play contains strong adult language including racial slurs.  

  • Does the play contain violence?

    • Yes, there is self-harm depicted on stage, guns depicted, and discussions of graphic racial violence. 

  • Does the play contain the use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs?

    • Yes, alcohol and tobacco are used on stage. 

  • Does the play contain nudity or other adult situations?

    • Neither nudity nor adult situations are portrayed on stage, but there are some mild references to adult situations. 

Performance & Tickets
Characters/Roles
Production Credits
FAQs
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