LCLT presents one-act play that depicts last night of MLK’s life

The Lake Charles Little Theatre opens its 92nd season with a performance of “The Mountaintop,” a one-act play by Katori Hall that depicts the last night of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life before his April 1968 assassination.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 24, 25 and 31, and Sept. 1, 7 and 8; and 3 p.m. Aug. 26 and Sept. 2 and 9.

After delivering an impassioned speech, King goes to his room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. There, he meets Camae, a housekeeper, and they both discuss their desire to improve civil rights. 

Camae later reveals that she is an angel sent to take King away and tells him how he will die. King is then forced to accept his fate and his enduring legacy.

Darol King plays Martin Luther King Jr., while Rev. Mary Guidry-Ringo plays Camae. 

Daniel Sadler, the play’s director, said the production gives the audience a “more intimate look” at King’s personal struggles, including the pressure from the civil rights movement and the time spent away from his family.

“We wanted to do something to honor him and the movement,” Sadler said. 

Randy Partin, theatre board president, said having the play as its season opener was important because this year marks the 50th anniversary of King’s assassination.

Sadler said the play is family-friendly.

“It’s really important that kids are able to come see this and the history,” he said. “There’s a very positive message that comes out of it.”

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors 65 and older. To order, visit www.thelclt.com or call 433-7988. Any available tickets will also be sold at the door.