Theatre for Transformation

Theatre for Transformation tours original historical theatre productions that invite audiences to transform our conversation about race and to create new possibilities by remembering, forgiving others and ourselves, and releasing our reasons for why things can't change. Founder Amanda Kemp serves as Producing Artistic Director and Resident Playwright. Ensemble members include Resident Director Dave Ebersole and actors Deborah Billups, Mary C. Ferrell, and Perry Di Virgilio, and Amanda Kemp.

Productions include:
— Show me the Franklins: Remembering the Ancestors, Slavery & Benjamin Franklin
— Ritual, Storytelling and Forgiveness: Creating a New Conversation about Race in America
    A one-woman show of stories, audience exchanges, and rituals for healing. Written and performed by Amanda     Kemp; Co-directed by Amanda Kemp and Dave Ebersole

Meet Jemima, Peter, Othello, George, and King, all held in slavery by Benjamin Franklin. Through music, movement & sometimes humorous scenes, three actors and scholar Amanda Kemp dramatize how our ancestors might have experienced American Slavery and American Freedom. This play offers a fresh perspective on Franklin, who died as president of the abolitionist society without ever freeing one of his own slaves. Join us in remembering and forgiving the wounds of slavery and creating new possibilities from a position of compassion. Appropriate for ages 8 and up.

This performance highlights the clash between the dominant narrative of American history, in which slavery is marginalized, and the submerged perspective, which sees slavery as central to the story of American freedom.

"The play was beautiful, funny, and smart, and I felt so proud that we were your hosts. " 
Kerry Sherin Wright, Director of the Philadelphia Alumni Writers House, Franklin & Marshall College.

"It was truly a pleasure working with you, as well! The feedback that I received thus far has been all positive... Please share our gratitude to your staff as well. Everyone did a great job and we hope to have you back again."
Monica R. Dixon, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company

"Absolutely necessary!! The theater presentation of "Benjamin Franklin, Abolitionist?" is a tale that should be shared with all people young and old. Documented history should be revisited and challenged whenever possible, yet in an intelligent and sensitive manner -- both done seamlessly by Amanda Kemp."
Sandra Granthon - Manager of Youth Programs, Crispus Attucks Community Center, Lancaster, PA

"Benjamin Franklin abolitionist? moved me in unexpected ways. This piece approached complex issues from many sides at once. Amanda Kemp's writing and the superb acting simultaneously stirred my intellect, my heart and my imagination."
Niyonu D. Spann, Dean of Pendle Hill