The Georgia Southern University Performing Arts Center recently hosted a remarkable event, Meet Dr. King, bringing together students and community members to celebrate and reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.
Five groups, including three schools, attended the event, creating an educational and inspiring atmosphere for all involved. One of the event’s highlights was the opportunity for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions and gain deeper insights into Dr. King’s impact on civil rights and social justice.
Daniel Brown, the Performing Arts Center Director, admired the event and stressed how it provided a profound learning experience. “It’s one thing to read about history in books, but another to experience it through events like this. Seeing and hearing Dr. King’s words come to life puts things into perspective,” Brown shared.
Gabriel Meeks, who portrayed Dr. King, and Jana Dennings, one of the show’s stars, also reflected on their experiences. Meeks shared his experience portraying Dr. King, describing the challenge and honor of stepping into the role.
“Bringing Dr. King to life on stage was a profound responsibility. It wasn’t just about reciting words but about capturing his passion, conviction, and unwavering commitment to justice. I wanted the audience to feel his presence and understand the weight of his words,” Meeks shared.
Meeks described how the event reinforced the importance of standing up for equality and justice.“Dr. King’s message still resonates today. It’s inspiring to see so many people coming together to honor his work and discuss how we can continue to make a difference,” he said.
Meeks also spoke about his extensive research to prepare for the role, studying Dr. King’s speeches and mannerisms to deliver an authentic performance.
He emphasized how theater is crucial in educating audiences about history, allowing them to connect emotionally with the past.
“Theater has a unique power to bring history to life in a way that books and lectures sometimes can’t. When people see these moments unfold on stage, they feel the weight of the words and actions in a much deeper way. I listened to his speeches repeatedly to memorize the words and understand the emotion behind them. His voice carried the struggles and hopes of a generation, and I wanted to do that justice,” Meeks said.
Dennings echoed these sentiments, adding, “This event made me realize how much work still needs to be done. It’s a reminder that we all have a role in carrying forward Dr. King’s vision.”
She further explained how the interactive nature of the event made history feel more personal. “Hearing Dr. King’s words spoken with such passion brought a new level of understanding. It wasn’t just a speech from the past but a call to action for today.”
Dennings also highlighted the emotional connection she felt during the performance, particularly in scenes depicting key moments in the Civil Rights Movement. “Being part of this production was moving. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the weight of the history we were portraying. It wasn’t just acting—it was an emotional journey.”
The Meet Dr. King event educated and inspired attendees to think critically about the past and the ongoing fight for justice. Bringing history to life encouraged students and community members to continue the conversation and take active steps toward building a more inclusive society.
As the audience departed, many appreciated the event, noting how it deepened their understanding of Dr. King’s legacy and the importance of continuing his work. Some attendees even shared personal stories about how Dr. King’s teachings had influenced their lives and aspirations.
For more information on future events at Georgia Southern Performing Arts Center, visit https://ww2.georgiasouthern.edu/academics/pac/events/.
