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CAPE FEAR MEMORIAL BRIDGE CLOSURE: UPDATES, RESOURCES, AND CONTEXT

Communique: New Play Reveals History Of Prostitute Turned Empress | "Theodora: Forever Augusta"

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Empress Theodora

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Joy James & Shaun Mitchell

Shaun Mitchell is a published poet and the author of several plays. He also has a strong interest in history-the subject of most of his theatrical work. After Shaun wrote the play I, Constantine, he intended to focus his attention on Emperor Theodosius. That changed when he heard about the 6th century peasant who was an actress and prostitute before her fortunes changed: Empress Theodora. 

Theodora: Forever Augusta, will be performed 4 times at the Red Barn Studio Theatre: Thursday, April 6-Sunday, April 9. Thursday, Friday, & Saturday shows are at 8:00pm; Sunday at 3:00pm.

Shaun was attracted to the history of Theodora and her husband Emperor Justinian because of the impact they made on western civilization. Theodora is often called the first feminist, and Justinian's codes are still foundational to European and American law. Shaun calls this pair the first "power couple," and compares Justinian to mafia boss Carlo Gambino in style and power. 

Listen to Shaun and poet/actor Joy James (aka Livity the Poet) talk about this new play above. Tickets are available at the door, online, or by telephone at 910-251-1788.