photo of handwritten poem called Youth, by Langston Hughes, written on February 22, 1931
photo of David Mills

David Mills portrays 20th century African American poet Langston Hughes: A presentation and poetry workshop

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Special Event
  • Feb 8, 2020 at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM
  • Free

African American poet Langston Hughes was an innovator of Jazz Poetry in the 1920s—a form of poetry that incorporated syncopated rhythms, jive language, and loose, improvised-like phrasing. Hughes has an interesting tie to Harpers Ferry: his maternal grandmother’s first husband was Lewis Leary, a follower of John Brown killed in the 1859 raid. Hughes wrote the poem October 16: The Raid, as well as a poem for Storer College students.

Experience this form of art and expression through actor and writer David Mills. Mills has worked in the dramatic and literary community for more than a decade. Inspired by living in Langston Hughes home for several years, Mills created a one-person dramatic rendition of Hughes’ poems and short stories.

At 3pm, following his portrayal of Hughes and a small reception, Mills will offer a poetry workshop. The workshop is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required by calling the Harpers Ferry Park Association at 304-535-6881. (30 participants max.)

Fees

Park entrance fees apply. The presentation beginning at 1 pm is free, the workshop at 3 pm is limited to 30 spaces by reservation only.

Location

Presentation and workshop will take place in the John Brown Museum in Lower Town Harpers Ferry.

Schedule

Date:

Feb 8, 2020

Time:

1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

Duration:

1 hour

A free presentation will begin at 1 pm, followed by a 3 pm workshop limited to 30 spaces by reservation only.

Contact Information

Harpers Ferry Park Association
304-535-6881
Contact Us

Event Type

  • Exhibition/Show
  • Partner Program
  • Talk
Tags: african american history, black history month, poetry