Escape to Freedom

Ossie Davis' enlightening and entertaining play focuses on the boyhood of Frederick Douglass, who—despite being born into enslavement—grew up to become an abolitionist, orator and the first African American man to hold a diplomatic office. Much of the plot centers on Fred's struggle to learn to read, the surest way to freedom. Designed specifically for young audiences, the play frequently employs direct address and features several songs of the period, to be sung a cappella.

Escape to Freedom premiered at Performing Arts Repertory Theatre (PART) at Town Hall in New York City on March 8, 1976. Directed by Robbie McCauley, with musical arrangements and direction by Harrison Fisher, the production featured Jesse Goins as Frederick Douglass.