BPA Shares The Untold Story Of YORK

David Casteal transports audiences to 1804 in this riveting first-person account of the only Black man on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. As William Clark's personal slave, York faced challenges that were inconceivable, exhilarating, and - at times - harrowing. One part history and one part pure creative vision, Casteal's passionate and playful portrayal is set against the driving backdrop of live West African drumming and traditional Native American drum recordings.

As a black man and as a slave, York went unrecognized for his accomplishments until 2001, when he was posthumously awarded the rank of Honorary Sergeant in the Corps of Discovery by then-President Bill Clinton.

Conceived by Spokane-based actor and Djembe drummer David Casteal and playwright Bryan Harnetiaux (Spokane Civic Theatre's Playwright-in-Residence), YORK has been performed across the northwest to sold-out houses and standing ovations. It premiered at Spokane Civic theatre on April 29, 2005 under the direction of Susan Hardie and went on to appear in New York City in July 2006.

YORK appears at BPA Sunday, February 4, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets, $20 for adults, and $15 for students and seniors, may be purchased online at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org, by phone at 206.842.8569 or in person at BPA, 200 Madison Avenue North, Bainbridge Island. BPA Box Office hours are 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and one hour prior to each performance. Due to some language and themes, YORK is recommended for junior high age and above.

BPA is supported, in part, by Bainbridge Community Foundation, the City of Bainbridge Island, and One Call for All. Bainbridge Performing Arts is pleased to offer an "Open Doors" program. Free and reduced-cost tickets to most events are available to community members in need through our partner Helpline House thanks to grants from BCF, the Mabee Family Foundation, and the Alder Fund at the Bainbridge Community Foundation. Please contact the BPA Box Office at 206.842.8569 or Helpline House to reserve tickets today.

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