THE VOICE OF PHILLIS WHEATLEY

— The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, presents Dr. Daisy Century as Phillis Wheatley, the first published African-American poet and the first African-American female published writer. The performance, in honor of National Poetry Month and the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, will take place at 7:00pm on April 30th at The Plainfield Performing Arts Center, located at 724 Park Street in Plainfield.

“Union County is proud to celebrate the power of literature and history through this portrayal of Phillis Wheatley,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This performance offers residents a meaningful chance to connect with an important voice from our nation’s early history while recognizing the lasting impact of poetry. Through Dr. Daisy Century’s portrayal, audiences will experience the voice of a writer whose words continue to inspire generations.”

Phillis Wheatley, born in West Africa, was forcibly taken to Boston as a child and sold to the Wheatley family, where her remarkable intellect was nurtured. She became a celebrated poet, corresponding with influential figures like George Washington after dedicating a poem to him. Though her life ended at 31, her powerful words continue to inspire readers to this day.

Dr. Daisy Century, an accomplished educator, performer, and author, brings Wheatley’s remarkable story to life with thoughtful research and dramatic storytelling. A graduate of Claflin University, South Carolina State University, and Temple University, Dr. Century has performed historical portrayals at venues including the National Archives and the Theodore Roosevelt National Historic Site, as well as schools, libraries, and museums across the country. Her performance honors Wheatley’s voice and highlights the lasting importance of poetry in American culture.

Created in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets, National Poetry Month is an annual celebration each April that highlights the influence of poetry and the writers who shape it. To purchase tickets for the April 30th performance, and for more information on American Revolution 250th Anniversary events in Union County, visit www.ucj.org/250.

This event was possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the State of New Jersey Council on the Arts, and in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.

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