‘Cadillac Crew’ to be staged Oct. 18 through Nov. 2

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Lumen Repertory Theatre will present the final production of its 2024 season, themed "BOLD,” the regional premiere of “Cadillac Crew” by Tori Sampson. This powerful play, running from Friday, Oct. 18, to Saturday, Nov. 2, at the historic San Marco Church, brings to the stage a story of civil rights, sisterhood and the complexities of the fight for equality.

In this groundbreaking production, which debuted at Yale Repertory Theatre in 2019, Lumen Repertory Theatre continues to push the boundaries of bold, professional theater in Northeast Florida. “Cadillac Crew” follows the lives of four women on the day of a civil rights protest in 1960s Virginia, offering a vivid portrayal of the often-overlooked contributions of Black women to the movement.

Through sharp dialogue, dynamic storytelling and surprising glimpses of our present time, Sampson’s work illuminates the intersection of race, gender and activism, resonating deeply with contemporary audiences. During the final days of a national election, this live performance material drips with relevance and something important to say. And it says it in both creative and bold ways.

The powerhouse cast of “Cadillac Crew” includes Cetera Bunche, Felecia Ewing, Zonnetta Marie and Kate McManus. The production is co-directed by Brian Niece and Katie Johnston, with Victoria Mayapi as dramaturg and Faith Rautter as stage manager. 

This regional premiere promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience, challenging perceptions, sparking critical conversations and celebrating the bold voices that have shaped history.

“With ‘Cadillac Crew,’ we are closing out our BOLD 2024 Season with a story that exemplifies the courage and resilience of the unsung who have fought tirelessly for justice,” said Lumen Repertory Theatre Artistic Director and Co-Founder Brian Niece. “We are delighted to tell this story loudly in Florida, because it not only honors the past but also invites our audiences to reflect on the very real ongoing struggle for equity and the role we all play in it.”

All performances will be held at the historic San Marco Church, 1620 Naldo Ave., Jacksonville. The dates and times are as follows:

  • Friday, Oct. 18, at 7:30 p.m. (opening night)
  • Saturday, Oct. 19, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Oct. 24, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Friday, Oct. 25, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Oct. 26, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Nov. 2, at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $45 or $20 for students with valid student ID and can be purchased at lumenrep.org/shows/cadillaccrew. Season Partners are StageFund, Preston and Joan Haskell, the Actors’ Equity Association and San Marco Church.

The production team for these plays includes Production Manager Katie Swider, Scenic and Props Designer Claire Cimino, Costumer Katie Swider, Sound and Video Designer Brian Niece and Lighting Designer and Technical Director Mike Livingston.

Additionally, Lumen Rep’s challenging 2025 season will be announced this fall. For more information regarding schedules and venues, go to lumenrep.org.