Black History Month has begun. Informative and entertaining programs abound at museums and theaters around town, but if your limited purse keeps you homebound, PBS is for you.
WTVI in Charlotte and ETV in South Carolina will combine repeat broadcasts and fresh, never before seen productions, focusing on historic and contemporary Black History subjects.
Underground Railroad: The William Still Story, airing Monday, February 6 at 10:00 p.m., spotlights a Black and unknown hero and documentarian of the Underground Railroad. The letters, news clippings, photographs and other ephemera William Still compiled in his book on the Underground Railroad provide a fascinating look at the humanity of those who sought freedom from slavery.
Freedom Riders: American Experience will be rebroadcast on Tuesday, February 7, at 8:00 p.m. Author and filmmaker Stanley Nelson presents the compelling history of young Black and White Americans who put non-violent tactics to the test, facing rabid racism in their quest to desegregate public facilities in the 1960s.
Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning book authored by Douglas A. Blackmon, Slavery By Another Name, a new documentary narrated by actor Laurence Fishburne, premieres on Monday, February 13, at 9:00 p.m. Blackmon presents the idea of “neoslavery,” which affected African Americans after Emancipation, who continued to carry the chains of bondage through forced labor for violating laws that decreed practically every move they made a crime.
“Hoop Dreams” director Steve James’ new production, The Interrupters, debuts on Tuesday, February 14, at 9:00 p.m. on “Frontline.” Former Chicago gang leaders try to “interrupt” shootings and stem the rising tide of violence in their communities to atone for their past acts.
Paying tribute to the outstanding artistic achievements of African Americans, PBS will feature documentaries on the “Hi De Ho” man, Cab Calloway, and Valerie Simpson, who penned many Rhythm and Blues hits with her husband Nick Ashford, who died in 2011. The Broadway musical “Memphis” will be shown in its entirety with the original cast members of the 2010 Tony Award winner for Best New Musical, featuring good old music of the 1950s.
Many programs are available for viewing at the PBS website.
Consider a contribution to PBS for the opportunity to enjoy all these excellent programs in the comfort of your home.
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