Black Pearl Sings! at MetroStage

Set in Depression-era Texas, Black Pearl Sings! follows Susannah, an ambitious "song collector" searching for lost African-American folk music. Her journey leads to Pearl, a prisoner with a soulful voice, steely spirit and an incredible history. Susannah wants the song that will put her in the spotlight, while Pearl wants a chance for freedom. As the two trace the roots of beloved American songs, the legacy of the past clashes with their hopes for the future. It's a powerful and moving story about a woman of color's struggle in a white man's world. Inspired by the musical partnership of folklorist John Lomax and legendary folk singer-guitarist Huddie "Lead Belly" Ledbetter, Black Pearl Sings! will fill Alexandria's Metrostage with the soul-stirring sounds of over 20 American folk and spiritual songs.