Play — Changing Same: The Cold-Blooded Murder of Booker T. Spicely

Local theater auteur Mike Wiley’s latest solo work is based on the true 1944 Durham event. On July 8th,1944, Private Booker T. Spicely was headed back home to Camp Butner after enjoying an evening in the Hayti neighborhood of Durham. He was unaware it would be his last. In the darkness of that night, he would become yet another victim of Jim Crow “justice.”

The play examines the racial tensions still found in Durham, the region, and the nation today. In addition, the play reminds contemporary audiences of the vibrant Hayti neighborhood and thriving Black businesses and community that have sustained Durham. Mike Wiley and Howard L. Craft co-wrote the script. Contributing to the atmosphere is local musician Corbie Hill, providing original live music to accompany the show.

The play was commissioned by the Booker T. Spicely Committee, with funding from Duke Energy, to commemorate the eightieth anniversary of Booker T. Spicely’s murder. Committee Chair James E. Williams Jr., explains, “The Spicely Committee believed this tragic killing, rooted in white supremacy, was one that had relevance and resonance to our current situation. We wanted to bring it to the community in more ways than a panel discussion or written articles. We wanted someone steeped in the arts, culture, and history. Mike Wiley was a no-brainer. We are thrilled that he said yes.”

Wiley responds, “It is high time we tell the full story behind the killing of Private Spicely and the community’s collective outrage and reaction to his murder. Changing Same is a one-man drama told from multiple perspectives in the Summer of 1944. How could we be a country crying out for victory abroad, yet silencing its Black citizens at home?”

Thu-Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.

Upcoming Dates For This Event:

Wednesday, November 13
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Nov132024

May052025 recurring event

5 Brodie Gym Dr
Durham, North Carolina 27705

Location:
Brody Theater at Branson Hall, Duke University East Campus
Admission:
$20, $10 Students/Seniors
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