Are You Ready, My Sister?

"Are You Ready, My Sister?" tells the exciting story of Harriet Tubman, great conductor on the Underground Railroad, and the Quaker women who helped her bring 300 fugitives to freedom. This historical adventure story is told by two actress/puppeteers using a giant patchwork quilt; as the plot unfolds, each square of the quilt comes to life with shadow-puppets and painted back-lit scenery. Besides providing a brilliantly colorful setting, the quilt is a metaphor of women's work and colaboration, so central to the success of the Underground Railroad. The play also features audience participation, dramatic scenes and live music based on the spirituals of the slave-era.
Developed as part of a residency in an elementary school, the play is designed for grades K - 8 and takes up such themes as courage, cooperation between the races and stereotyping. The program is 50 minutes long, including an opportunity for the children to ask questions after the performance. Both preparatory and follow-up materials are available for teachers.