Beauregard (“Bo”) Stuart Lee, a self-confessed former racist, relates to MJ Townes (played by Weaver’s wife, Nanette who is making a documentary film), the acts of thuggery in which he was involved with his buddies in the KKK. The racially-charged activities in St. Augustine moved the pending Civil Rights legislation from the halls of Congress to Pres. Lyndon Johnson’s desk for signing.
MLK, Jr. described St. Augustine as the most violent city in America. The State of Florida, from 1860 to 1960, had more lynchings per capita than Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama combined.
From “Bo” you’ll hear about The Monson Motor Lodge (muriatic acid in the swimming pool), King’s arrest (the only time he was arrested in the State of Florida), the beating of Andrew Young in the Plaza, the largest mass arrest of Rabbis in U.S. history and more.
This is an important two-hour drama. Though Bo and MJ Townes are fictional characters, the story they present is historically accurate and entertaining. Come prepared to laugh and cry, think and learn. Questions? Call playwright/actor Lee Weaver at 904-687-8779. See also:
http://www.publicmedianet.org/the-witness/