Authors

Luke McLemore

Files

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Abstract

Big Quarterly, a hip-hop gospel musical, spotlights the legacy of Peter Spencer – a former slave turned pastor who founded the nation’s first independent Black church and sparked the Big Quarterly–a joyful reunion for freedom in Delaware. For those not yet free, the Big Quarterly was their chance to secure passage on the Underground Railroad. When the first Big Quarterly in 1813 ends in a surprise raid, Peter must face his tragic past to free the heart and mind of his own brother. Big Quarterly shines a spotlight on the burdens one man must shoulder in the fight for freedom in all its forms. All aspects of the book, music, and lyrics were co-created, written synergistically by the authors. The result is a full-length rap-through original musical that pushes the boundaries of traditional musical theater form and has potential to reach new audiences.

Publication Date

7-1-2024

Campus

New York City Campus

Specialization

Writing and Production for Musical Theater

Keywords

hip-hop; gospel; musical theater; slavery; Underground Railroad.

Big Quarterly

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