CMU School of Drama


Wednesday, September 27, 2023

At Ford’s Theatre, Maynard Jackson’s ex-speechwriter reflects on his legacy

The Washington Post: When Ford’s Theatre contacted Cleage last year about its Legacy Commissions initiative — a newly established incubator for stories involving social justice, racial history, underrepresented characters and lesser-known historical figures — Cleage floated the idea of commemorating Jackson 20 years after his death. Once Ford’s gave the go-ahead, Cleage got to work not on a conventional history play about Jackson’s three terms in office but on a dramatized discourse in which average citizens revisit a more positive political era.

1 comment:

John Alexander Farrell said...

Contemplating the recent Washington Post article on Ford's Theatre, I found myself grappling with the profound notion of legacy. What is a legacy, and how does one go about leaving a meaningful imprint on the world? The piece evoked memories of a recent visit by Robert Ramirez to our Stage Management seminar. During the Q&A session, Robert shared his aspirations for the School of Drama. He articulated a desire to instigate transformative changes but emphasized the importance of departure before clinging to a position for the sake of ego. Robert’s perspective resonated deeply with me as he advocated for a legacy rooted in genuine impact rather than personal glory. Reflecting on his words, I realized that the right way to leave a legacy is to ensure that one's actions are driven by a sincere commitment to positive change, untainted by ego-driven motives. It's about making a difference for the right reasons and knowing when to step back, allowing the legacy to endure beyond individual tenure. In a world where the allure of recognition can cloud intentions, Robert’s approach serves as a poignant reminder that a lasting legacy is built on selfless contributions and a steadfast commitment to meaningful transformation. The article, in turn, prompts us to ponder how we, too, can leave an indelible mark, not merely for personal acclaim but as stewards of enduring and positive change.